Brightonfans.com :: Brighton and Hove Albion fansite

Fatman Slim's Archives Page

Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos	Manager
10-11	1	46	28	11	7	95		61	24	15	1	Poyet
09-10	1	46	15	14	17	59		32	30	37	13	Poyet
08-09	1	46	13	13	20	52		28	28	43	16	Slade
07-08	1	46	19	12	15	69		41	26	33	7	Wilkins
06-07	1	46	14	11	21	53		30	24	46	18	Wilkins
05-06	C	46	7	17	22	38	--	15	37	48	24	McGhee
04-05	C	46	13	12	21	51	--	28	26	46	20	McGhee
03-04	1	46	22	11	13	77	--	48	24	28	4	McGhee
02-03	C	46	11	12	23	45	--	24	26	50	23	Coppell
01-02	1	46	25	15	6	90	--	54	33	13	1	Taylor
00-01	2	46	28	8	10	92	--	61	17	22	1	Adams
99-00	2	46	17	16	13	67	--	37	35	28	11	Adams

GP could see some people on the W'dean pitch. They thought it was all over... it was in '10/11.
Poyet worked for a mid table finish in '09/10 and got it too.
Slade took over from Adams in '08/9 when we appeared down but he kept us up and walked on water to boot.
Wilkins finished 7 pts off lg1 p-o places in '07/8. Much better than a big disappointment for '06/7 when getting a 'must do better' report but still lost his job - oh dear!!
McGhee had euphoria in '04/5 when surviving in the Champ's by a point, in a very close relegation scrap. A year later his number was up well before game 46 of '05/6. Two terms before he was happily on his way to er, Cardiff in May for '03/4 lg1 p-o final.
Coppell had seen his skills as a manager validated in a desperate attempt to defy very long survival odds. Perhaps an unlucky year, '02/3 in the Champ's.
Taylor took; the lg1 title, Brighton up to elite and resignation to boot, with a big CV plus in '01/2.
Adams had done an incredible act for a once rock bottom club, when achieving promotion in '00/1 after two years . He actually wasn't far off lg2 play-offs in Withdean's first season of '99/00.

Run In

Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos	Manager
10-11	1	11	6	3	2	21		55	27	18	1	Poyet
09-10	1	11	6	3	2	21		54	27	18	13	Poyet
08-09	1	11	5	2	4	17		45	18	36	16	Slade
07-08	1	11	5	2	4	17		45	18	36	7	Wilkins
06-07	1	11	1	5	5	8		9	45	45	18	Wilkins
05-06	C	11	2	3	6	9	--	18	27	55	24	McGhee
04-05	C	11	1	4	6	7	--	9	36	55	20	McGhee
03-04	1	11	6	3	2	21	--	55	27	18	4	McGhee
02-03	C	11	4	4	3	16	--	36	36	28	23	Coppell
01-02	1	11	7	3	1	24	--	64	27	9	1	Taylor
00-01	2	11	6	4	1	22	--	55	36	9	1	Adams
99-00	2	11	6	5	0	23	--	54	46	0	11	Adams

Gus was after auto-promo in '11 for sure and got it by winning the title early doors!
Poyet wanted '10 to be top half by the end really.
Slade pulled off the great escape in '09 and became a hero in his own run-in.
Wilkins was just short of lg1 p-o figs in '08 but had a dire run-in for '07 that looked negative from any angle.
McGhee couldn't motivate a defeated team of '06 Championship. His run-in was a nightmare in '05 with just one win. Nearly 2 pt/gm had got B'ton to knockout stages in a successful lg1 campaign of '04.
Coppell went for it but Champ's points return needed to be bigger. A positive sequence broke down in '03.
Taylor went on winning, if not drawing, to get lg1 glory. All but unbeaten for '02.
Adams was a model of consistency in '01 and did the biz as usual. In his first lg2 season for '00, a vision of the future revealed what an unbeaten run could do.

Start to Run In

Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos	Manager
10-11	1	35	22	8	5	74		63	23	14	1	Poyet
09-10	1	35	9	11	15	38		26	31	43	18	Poyet
08-09	1	35	8	11	16	35		23	31	46	22	Adams
07-08	1	35	14	10	11	52		40	28	31	11	Wilkins
06-07	1	35	13	6	16	45		37	17	46	12	Wilkins
05-06	C	35	5	14	16	29	--	14	40	46	23	McGhee
04-05	C	35	12	8	15	44	--	34	23	43	15	McGhee
03-04	1	35	16	8	11	56	--	46	23	31	5	McGhee
02-03	C	35	7	8	20	29	--	20	23	57	22	Coppell
01-02	1	35	18	12	5	66	--	51	34	15	2	Taylor
00-01	2	35	22	4	9	70	--	63	11	26	2	Adams
99-00	2	35	11	11	13	44	--	31	31	38	16	Adams

Gus wanted to kick on during '10/11.
Poyet was hoping '09/10 was a survival year afterall.
Adams lost the backing of Knight in '08/9 and left before the run-in. Slade took over.
Wilkins overall inconsistencies were dragging good work down. Lg1 play-offs looked but a dream in '07/8 and '06/7.
McGhee knew he'd a massive job on in '05/6 Champ's, while 12 months prior he was cruising '04/5. A year previous again '03/4 he's lg1 top 5 and won nearly half of fixtures.
Coppell kept us on a '02/3 Champ's tightrope but it was always in the balance.
Taylor posted good '01/2 Q figs so far, as lg1 WDL ratio was 3:2:1. A class act.
Adams notched up a high proportion of lg2 victories in '00/1. He'd only levelled out by three quarters gone in '99/00.

Mid Season

Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos	Manager
10-11	1	23	15	4	4	49		65	17	17	1	Poyet
09-10	1	23	6	7	10	25		26	30	43	18	Poyet
08-09	1	23	6	4	13	22		26	17	56	22	Adams
07-08	1	23	9	8	6	35		39	35	26	11	Wilkins
06-07	1	23	9	4	10	31		39	17	43	12	Wilkins
05-06	C	23	4	7	12	19	--	18	30	52	23	McGhee
04-05	C	23	8	5	10	29	--	35	22	43	15	McGhee
03-04	1	23	9	5	9	32	--	39	22	39	5	McGhee
02-03	C	23	6	7	10	25	--	26	31	43	22	Coppell
01-02	1	23	12	8	3	44	--	52	35	13	2	Taylor
00-01	2	23	15	2	6	47	--	65	9	26	3	Adams
99-00	2	23	6	8	9	26	--	26	35	39	16	Adams

GP knew it was now or never during '10/11.
Poyet was now in unknown territory - new manager of a decade-long sleeping giant in '09/10.
Slade arrived to pick up the pieces of Adams failure in '08/9.
Wilkins '07/8 lg1 total was only marginally better than '06/7.
McGhee was really up against it in '05/6. In '04/5 it was an acceptable Champ's tally. His lg1 effort of '03/4 kept things ticking over.
Coppell was trying to beat Champ's survival odds in '02/3 but a very hard task.
Taylor went for broke during '01/2, recording fab stats and loadsa lg1 pts.
Adams was on a roll in '00/1 netting over 2 pt/gm. A first season '99/00 was merely just a point per lg2 game at this stage.

Halfway to three quarters

Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos	Manager
10-11	1	12	9	1	2	28		75	8	16	1	Poyet
09-10	1	12	4	5	3	17		33	42	25	18	Poyet
08-09	1	12	3	3	6	12		25	25	50	22	Adams
07-08	1	12	5	4	3	19		42	33	25	11	Wilkins
06-07	1	12	4	2	6	14		33	16	50	12	Wilkins
05-06	C	12	3	1	8	10	--	25	8	67	23	McGhee
04-05	C	12	5	4	3	19	--	42	33	25	15	McGhee
03-04	1	12	5	3	4	18	--	42	25	33	5	McGhee
02-03	C	12	4	3	5	15	--	33	25	42	22	Coppell
01-02	1	12	6	3	3	21	--	50	25	25	2	Taylor
00-01	2	12	7	1	4	22	--	58	8	33	3	Adams
99-00	2	12	3	4	5	13	--	25	33	42	16	Adams

GP went for broke from early doors in '10/11.
Gus wanted the job for '09/10 and any year is a long time in footy.
Adams went in '08/9 when failing even to be mediocre. Slade arrived to pump it up.
Wilkins was having an up and down time to try and rise above lg1 mediocrity for both '07/8 and '06/7.
McGhee picked up the Champ's pace in '04/5 but it was a winter of discontent in '05/6. His lg1 effort of '03/4 kept p-o hopes alive.
Coppell continued good Champ's work in '02/3 but losses mounted. He was close to cut off.
Taylor pushed on during '01/2, recording useful lg1 win stats. No probs there.
Adams done good in '00/1 piling on lg2 points. His first season '99/00 went a bit flat to boot.

Start to Halfway

Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos	Manager
10-11	1	23	13	7	3	46		56	30	13	1	Poyet
09-10	1	23	5	6	12	21		21	26	53	21	Poyet
08-09	1	23	5	8	10	23		22	35	43	19	Adams
07-08	1	23	9	6	8	33		39	26	35	10	Wilkins
06-07	1	23	9	4	10	31		39	17	43	12	Wilkins
05-06	C	23	2	13	8	19	--	8	57	35	22	McGhee
04-05	C	23	7	4	12	25	--	31	17	52	20	McGhee
03-04	1	23	11	5	7	38	--	48	22	30	4	McGhee
02-03	C	23	3	5	15	14	--	13	22	65	23	Coppell
01-02	1	23	12	9	2	45	--	52	39	9	3	Taylor
00-01	2	23	15	3	5	48	--	65	13	22	2	Adams
99-00	2	23	8	7	8	31	--	35	30	35	15	Adams

Poyet had his target by end of '10 and was spot on too.
Gus knew what he had to do before end of '09 - top twenty!!
Adams had to start again as it went tits up in '08.
Wilkins knew to work some lg1 magic after '07. He was also on track to improve on '06 from lg1 mid-table but needed less defeats.
McGhee in his two Champ's years '05 & '04 really struggled. He got Albion to 4th in lg1, after a wobble to halfway back in '03.
Coppell knew he had to keep future defeats to a low % stat for Champ's survival after '02.
Taylor appeared to have all the lg1 answers by Xmas '01. Time would tell.
Adams got his '00 table top act together and lg2 results were very positive. A season before '99, he was looking for a new millennium plan.

End of Start to Halfway

Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos	Manager
10-11	1	11	6	3	2	21		54	27	18	1	Poyet
09-10	1	11	2	2	7	8		18	18	63	21	Poyet
08-09	1	11	3	1	7	10		27	9	63	19	Adams
07-08	1	11	4	4	3	16		36	36	27	10	Wilkins
06-07	1	11	5	2	4	17		45	18	36	12	Wilkins
05-06	C	11	1	6	4	9	--	9	55	36	22	McGhee
04-05	C	11	3	1	7	10	--	27	9	64	20	McGhee
03-04	1	11	4	2	5	14	--	36	18	46	4	McGhee
02-03	C	11	2	4	5	10	--	18	36	46	23	Coppell
01-02	1	11	6	5	0	23	--	55	45	9	3	Taylor
00-01	2	11	8	1	2	22	--	73	9	18	2	Adams
99-00	2	11	3	4	4	13	--	27	36	36	15	Adams

Poyet needed to maintain momentum for '10 up to New Year.
Slade got sacked coz we needed to be above the d-z by halfway in '09. Gustavo Poyet came in.
Adams lost the plot in '08, falling down the table.
Wilkins was again getting stuck outside lg1 p-o places in '07. He'd steadied the ship in '06 and held a lg1 mid-berth position.
McGhee found '05 & '04 Championship standards a bit taxing. In his lg1 year '03 he did ok though.
Coppell had to work miracles in '02 but was only human. He needed to find a Champ's formula.
Taylor made a seamless change-over in '01 and had super lg1 figs. Onward & seemingly upwards.
Adams bettered his start in the lg2 promo year from '00 but had found season1 of '99 frustrating, mainly through inconsistency.

Start

Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos	Manager
10-11	1	12	7	4	1	25		58	33	8	1	Poyet
09-10	1	12	3	4	5	13		25	33	42	17	Slade
08-09	1	12	2	7	3	13		17	58	25	17	Adams
07-08	1	12	5	2	5	17		41	17	41	11	Wilkins
06-07	1	12	4	2	6	14		33	17	50	18	McGhee
05-06	C	12	1	7	4	10	--	8	58	33	21	McGhee
04-05	C	12	4	3	5	15	--	33	25	42	15	McGhee
03-04	1	12	7	3	2	24	--	58	25	17	1	Coppell
02-03	C	12	1	1	10	4	--	8	8	84	24	Hinshelwood
01-02	1	12	6	4	2	22	--	50	33	17	3	Adams
00-01	2	12	7	2	3	23	--	58	17	25	3	Adams
99-00	2	12	5	3	4	18	--	42	25	33	11	Adams

Poyet got to make '10 a very fast start in our last year at Withdean.
Slade was expected to do the do in '09 but it started really badly.
Adams returned in '08 and k-o'd rev2 but results were poor.
Wilkins was trying to put a p-o squad together for '07 and sometimes we were, other times we weren't. Mostly we were average lg1.
In '06 McGhee (W2 D1 L3) lost the plot and was sacked. Wilkins took on the lg1 job to aim for play-offs. His mantra was for youth.
McGhee had two seasons in the Championship where starts were; initially ok '04, then much less than average '05.
Coppell kicked off in '03 League 1 in fine style and took us to the top. On course for a promotion challenge of sorts.
Hinshelwood had a tough job on but no experience to help when starting a Championship campaign in '02.
Adams got reasonable results from his new lg2 team after a Brighton homecoming '99. He then took a better side to barnstorming starts in consecutive seasons in lg2 of '00 & lg1 '01.

Poyet
Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos
10-11	1	12	7	4	1	25	--	58	33	8	1
Target		+34	19	8	7	65	--	56	23	21	2
Actual		+34	21	7	6	70	--	62	20	18	1
Req'd		46	26	12	8	90	--	57	26	17	2
Total		46	28	11	7	95	--	61	24	15	1

Gus had played down talk of automatic promotion, a top-six finish and big club ambition, while Albion were still at Withdean for '10/11. But early results were good, so we were actually looking for an auto-pomo spot. In the event, GP exceeded all expectations for BHA to become champions early doors. He got best stats too for '99-'11 over all.

Poyet
Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos
09-10	1	12	3	4	5	13	--	25	33	42	17	(Slade)
Target		+34	14	11	9	53	--	42	32	26	10
Actual		+34	12	10	12	46	--	35	29	35	13
Req'd		46	17	15	14	66	--	37	33	30	10
Total		46	15	14	17	59	--	32	30	37	13

Slade done the great escape, added to the squad in pre-season but faltered in opening rounds of '9/10. Then Gus Poyet came in and did the big turn around. It took a while to get results, so he too changed playing personnel. He eventually got well above a point a game to stay clear of lower table fodder. A fair run-in took us into mid table.

Slade
Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos
08-09	1	12	2	7	3	13	--	17	58	25	17	(Adams)
Target		+34	15	9	10	54	--	44	26	29	10
Actual		+34	11	6	17	39	--	32	18	50	16
Req'd		46	17	16	13	67	--	37	35	28	10
Total		46	13	13	20	52	--	28	28	43	16

Adams came back for '08/9 but needed 20pts to virtually fix a path to a p-o spot. In view of disappointing results, could he match his year1 figures this season? Er, he left after halfway thru with the club in 21st.
So Slade arrived to try and salvage something from a disaster campaign. He kept us in League1 and it could have been worse.

Wilkins
Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos
07-08	1	12	5	2	5	17	--	41	17	41	11
Target		+34	17	8	9	59	--	50	24	26	6
Actual		+34	14	10	10	52	--	41	29	29	7
Req'd		46	22	10	14	76	--	48	22	30	6
Total		46	19	12	15	69	--	41	26	33	7

Twenty points would have been a nice '07/8 starting point but inconsistencies held a young squad back. Brighton were probably a tad better than those stats so lg1 p-o's were aimed for again. Wilkins got to mount a late challenge but had too much ground to make up for grabbing a top-six spot. He was relieved of duties to add insult to other woes.

Wilkins
Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos
06-07	1	12	4	2	6	14	--	33	17	50	18	(McGhee)
Target		+34	18	6	10	60	--	53	17	30	6
Actual		+34	10	9	15	39	--	29	26	45	18
Req'd		46	22	8	16	74	--	48	17	35	6
Total		46	14	11	21	53	--	30	24	46	18

Wilkins shared the lg1 sequence of 12 starting fixtures with McGhee in '06/7. Both recorded W 2 D 1 L 3 which formed the basis for estimating a 'target' over 34 games to end of season. This projection was only good enough to give a mid table finish. However, hope springs eternal so play-offs were the aim. In the event, mediocrity would have been nice!

McGhee
Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos
05-06	C	12	1	7	4	10	--	8	58	33	21
Target		+34	10	10	14	40	--	29	29	41	21
Actual		+34	6	10	18	28	--	17	29	53	24
Req'd		46	11	17	18	50	--	24	37	39	21
Total		46	7	17	22	38	--	15	37	48	24

McGhee didn't do too well at the start of '05/6 and was left with a Championship sized mountain to climb. A target of 40 points was attainable in practice, compared to '02/3 for instance. By run-in he'd only added 19 and had to up it considerably to stay up. Long before the end proper we were down and out. Many Brighton fans didn't think he'd put up enough of a fight to survive as boss.

McGhee
Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos
04-05	C	12	4	3	5	15	--	33	25	42	15
Target		+34	8	11	15	35	--	24	32	44	21
Actual		+34	9	9	16	36	--	26	26	47	20
Req'd		46	12	14	20	50	--	26	30	44	21
Total		46	13	12	21	51	--	28	26	46	20

In '04/5 McGhee was having a crack at being a Champ's boss and just about held it together. He needed 35 pts from 34 games which is really only relegation form. At 3/4 stage (page 1) he only needed 6 points for apparent safety. It began to fall apart and went to the last day as in '02/3 - although we had a slight edge on drop zone rivals this time. A close run event celebrated as fantastic by B'ton fans.

McGhee
Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos
03-04	1	12	7	3	2	24	--	58	25	17	1	(Coppell)
Target		+34	14	9	11	51	--	41	27	32	4
Actual		+34	15	8	11	53	--	44	24	32	4
Req'd		46	21	12	13	75	--	46	26	28	4
Total		46	22	11	13	77	--	48	24	28	4

Back in div2 (lg1) of '03/4 was still incentive enough for Coppell to kick start a bid for a quick return to elite. He had us flying by game 12 and auto promo candidates.
McGhee got lucky or perhaps really did the biz after this. Play-offs were realistic and a 75 point target overall was surpassed to take 4th place. Mounting losses were cause for concern but he kept them within limits to below 1/3 of WDL totals.

Coppell
Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos
02-03	C	12	1	1	10	4	--	8	8	84	24	(Hinshelwood)
Target		+34	11	13	10	46	--	32	38	30	21
Actual		+34	10	11	13	41	--	30	32	38	23
Req'd		46	12	14	20	50	--	26	30	44	21
Total		46	11	12	23	45	--	24	26	50	23

B'ton had got to div1 (Champ's) in '02/3 but were ill prepared. Hinshelwood drew a short straw and both Board and fans suddenly realised what a decent standard it was. You are only as good as the last result and basically, we needed a miracle to survive.
Coppell came in for 3/4 of that season with an unenviable target of 50 pts or 21st place to try and achieve. His record stands as a valiant attempt to change us into a mid-table side, by overcoming a huge deficit to start with. Real hard luck that we went down on the final day.

Taylor
Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos
01-02	1	12	6	4	2	22	--	50	33	17	3	(Adams)
Target		+34	18	10	6	64	--	53	29	18	2
Actual		+34	19	11	4	68	--	56	32	12	1
Req'd		46	24	14	8	86	--	52	30	18	2
Total		46	25	15	6	90	--	54	33	13	1

Adams kicked off '01/2 on course to assault div2 (lg1) in strident manner, having raised the club's and his profile considerably. It was very good for each and a bond still endures.
Taylor came in, maintained impetus and aimed for better if possible. His record of exactly 2 points per game made him and BHA a winner. Albion stormed the division and collected a second consecutive title. B'ton actually took 24 from 30 points during the run-in - no mean feat. Taylor's muted celebrations didn't reflect that of an incredibly jubilant Sussex by the sea.

Adams
Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos
00-01	2	12	7	2	3	23	--	58	17	25	3
Target		+34	17	8	9	59	--	50	24	26	3
Actual		+34	21	6	7	69	--	62	18	20	1
Req'd		46	24	10	12	82	--	52	22	26	3
Total		46	28	8	10	92	--	61	17	22	1

Adams mounted a challenge on promotion places in '00/01 from the word go with super starting figures. Being div3 (lg2) his target was 3rd spot, which meant maintaining a 50% win ratio. Over the next 34 fixtures B'ton had a 3:1 W/L differential and cruised to automatic promotion, then the title and some nice silverware by late in the run-in. Job done and how!

Adams
Sesn	Lg	Pl	Wn	Dr	Ls	Pt		%W	%D	%L	Pos
99-00	2	12	5	3	4	18	--	42	25	33	11
Target		+34	16	9	9	57	--	47	26	26	7
Actual		+34	12	13	9	49	--	35	38	26	11
Req'd		46	21	12	13	75	--	46	26	28	7
Total		46	17	16	13	67	--	37	35	28	11

Who could ever forget that incredible 6-0 first match win at Withdean to originally put us top of the div3 table for '99/00? Indeed, in the inaugural home friendly game versus Nott'm Forest (24/7/99) it seemed as if we really were playing big-boys and something for Albion to aspire to. Events since took a turn for the better, after an initial season establishing our Brighton based team fit to climb above previous depths of near relegation from FL status. Adams realised he might with luck make play-offs but his target proved just too distant to get points required. More draws than wins scuppered reaching a higher place than mid-table.

Click on the character from the list

AMEX Albion Head Coaches
* * * Fabian Hurzeler * * *
SQUADS 13-14
Prem TABLE
Prem previous encounters
STATS & TARGETS
ANNUAL RESULTS
PL & PL2 signings '20 to '24
PL & PL2 signings '17 to '20
Players apps & goals
Potter & De Zerbi
Prem Squads 10-12
Prem Squads 7-9
Chris Hughton
BHA Coaches
Goalkeepers
Hostings & Prem shirt no.s
PREM outs & past players '17 to '25
Past Players apps & goals
* * * * *
Sami Hyypia
CHAMPIONSHIP Ins & Outs '14 - '17
Championship Squads 4-6
Oscar Garcia
Gus Poyet
CHAMPIONSHIP Ins & Outs '11 - '14
Championship Squads 1-3
CHAMPIONSHIP Stats
C'ship shirt no.s
CUP Competitions
* * * * *
Withdean Managers
Withdean Coaches
Gus Poyet
Russell Slade
Dean Wilkins
Mark McGhee
Steve Coppell
Martin Hinshelwood
Peter Taylor
Micky Adams
W'dean Ins & Outs
W'dean Goalkeepers '99-'11
W'dean 2nd & 3rd Revolutions '08-'11
W'dean interim period '06-'08
W'dean Championship Years '02-'06
W'dean Old Squad '99-'02
W'dean - FA Cup
W'dean - League Cup
W'dean - FL Trophy
Dick Knight
Martin Perry
Gory Years Managers '93-'99
2 Goldstone Ground Managers
1 Goldstone Ground Player

Sami Hyypia - Bobby Z - Charlie O - Danny C - Guy B

AMEX Albion Head Coaches

Falmer Years: 2011 to 2025 Championship & Premier League:
Aug 2011 - Jun 2013 ~ Gus Poyet ... ... ... Championship
Jun 2013 - May 2014 ~ Oscar Garcia ... ... ... " " "
Jun 2014 - Dec 2014 ~ Sami Hyypia .... ... ... " " "
Jan 2015 - May 2019 ~ Chris Hughton ... Championship & Premier League
May 2019 - Sep 2022 ~ Graham Potter ... Premier League
Sep 2022 - May 2024 ~ Roberto de Zerbi ... Premier League & Europa League
Jun 2024 - (June '27) ~ Fabian Hurzeler ... Premier League

In spring '22 it was 25 years since surviving as a Football League club -
scroll down to Withdean managers, Dick Knight, Martin Perry, Gory Years and Goldstone managers.
Go to CLUBS and FALMER DIARY & FILE above for extra info, also see WITHDEAN ERA in main stats...
for Doncaster, Hereford and many other now remote lower league outfits like Hartlepool & York. These also include Rochdale & Darlington; clubs we played at the Goldstone when completing promotion years of 1972 & 1965. Or who remembers Burton at the Amex in Feb 2017 - on the 20th anniversary of Fans United.

Timeline.
The American Express Community Stadium (Amex) officially opened in July 2011, with a friendly against Premiership big-boys Tottenham Hotspur in front of a crowd of 15k. Previously 6k watched the first ever ramp-up event, when Charlie Oatway's BHA reserve side played non-league Eastbourne Boro in the Sussex Senior Cup Final for previous season 10/11.
The second decade of Albion's 21st century history began for Brighton fans with Championship football, which continued for six seasons. But unlike the noughties Withdean era, this period was successful in that it finished with BHA status enhanced as a Premiership club.
In August '23 the venue was renamed exclusively as the American Express Stadium. Therefore the charity of Albion in the Community moved into premises in east suburbs of the city, becoming Brighton & Hove Albion Foundation.
Also during these recent successful years owner Tony Bloom received an MBE and deputy chairman Paul Barber an OBE for services to football.

GUS POYET took Brighton to the Amex as League1 title holders at Withdean and next we were playing in a brand new 20k+ stad in the Championship. Behind the scenes, Brighton fans knew Chairman Tony Bloom was the man responsible for financing building of the Amex, which was only plans on paper at time of the Global Banking crisis and recession of 2007-8. He effectively provided funds to erect CEO Martin Perry's pet project of lifes work and also enable Gus Poyet to try to take the club from the gutter to the stars. Talk about state of the art!
BHA applied to increase stadium capacity for the second year in 2013 from 22k up to 30k. There were also plans to build a training complex at Lancing by 2014. Gus Poyet also did the biz on-field and BHA reached Champ's p-os for 12/13.
OSCAR GARCIA became head coach for our third term at Falmer for 13/14. But he resigned immediately after defeat in p-os once more.
SAMI HYYPIA was appointed in summer of 2014 as the new, young and dynamic head coach by ever-ambitious chairman Tony Bloom. But he also resigned, following a poor run of results prior to Xmas fixtures.

CHRIS HUGHTON stepped in at New Year 2015 with a brief to lift the team clear of Champ's relegation places and reinvigorate the club to, 'one aim, one ambition.' This appeared to be a huge task by end of the season. But in 2016 Albion just missed a top-two place, although were knocked out in p-o s-f once again. He then went one better in 2017 by steering Seagulls to automatic promotion to the Premier League.
He kept BHA there after their first & second elite season completions in 2018 & 2019. But parted company with Albion immediately afterwards.
GRAHAM POTTER very soon got headhunted by Tony Bloom, following finish of the second Premier League campaign in May 2019. After a further three and a bit years of club progress he left to coach Chelsea.
ROBERTO de ZERBI was appointed during mid September 2022, early into the sixth Prem term, shortly after the resignation of Graham Potter. He held the head coach job for two seasons until leaving in May '24 to go abroad again into Europe.
FABIAN HURZELER was next head-hunted by chairman Tony Bloom & CEO Paul Barber to become the youngest Prem manager from June '24.

Yr L Sesn .. Pt . Po . H Coach - status
01 C 11/12 . 66 . 10 . Poyet - mid div Championship
02 C 12/13 . 75 . 04 . Poyet - p-o s-f in C'ship
03 C 13/14 . 72 . 06 . Garcia - p-o s-f in C'ship
04 C 14/15 . 47 . 20 . Hyypia/Hughton - bottom six in C'ship
05 C 15/16 . 89 . 03 . Hughton - p-o s-f C'ship
06 C 16/17 . 93 . 02 . Hughton - runners-up C'ship
* * * * *
07 P 17/18 . 40 . 15 . Hughton - bottom six Premier League . FA Cup Q-F
08 P 18/19 . 36 . 17 . Hughton - bottom six Premier League . FA Cup S-F
09 P 19/20 . 41 . 15 . Potter - bottom six. Prem suspended, finished 26 July.
10 P 20/21 . 41 . 16 . Potter - bottom six Premier League.
11 P 21/22 . 51 . 09 . Potter - top ten Premier League.
12 P 22/23 . 62 . 06 . De Zerbi/Potter - top six Premier League . FA Cup S-F . Qualify for Europa League.
13 P 23/24 . 48 . 11 . De Zerbi - mid div Premier League . Europa League last 16
14 P 24/25 . 23 . 05 . Hurzeler - Premier League @ 6/12/24

*** see also: all AMEX managers in CLUBS tab at top and also STATS PLUS via main Stats tab.

Years 1&2, Gus Poyet - Championship.
The charismatic and somewhat enigmatic Uruguayan coach certainly raised the team's profile, when competing in tough second level fixtures which coincided with BHA rehoused at the Amex.
Crowds flocked there again when capacity increased during the second term, with almost constant sell-outs.
The football was something Brighton fans old and new hadn't seen live before. It therefore came as a shock when at end of 12/13 Poyet was told to stay away and later sacked in the close season.
Year 3, Oscar Garcia - Championship.
As a former Barcelona midfielder, Garcia was considered more than suitable to continue the Spanish style of play that Albion adopted during opening years in the Championship. He took his brand of quiet determination onto the training ground and led BHA to another successful season. But quit to pursue greater ambitions.
Year 4, Sami Hyypia & Chris Hughton - Championship.
The tall blond Finn was another young coach with impecible credentials as a quality player, like Garcia & Poyet, at the highest club level, plus international experience. He also quit, after seeing BHA slide into relegation places before end of 2014.
He was replaced by a very experienced manager with a sound coaching record, knowledge of the division and how to get out of it - upwards!

Years 5-8, Chris Hughton - Championship & Premier League.
In 15/16 Hughton came very close to gaining auto-promo in his first full season. Twelve months later he achieved that target, taking BHA into the Premier League for 17/18 as Championship runners-up.
CH then ensured BHA survived both their initial and second PL terms. At end of the 18/19 season Chris Hughton was released by the club.
Years 9-11, Graham Potter - Premier League
Tony Bloom appointed his latest but young and untried PL coach after eye-catching progress rebuilding at Swansea in the Championship. Potter duly guided Albion thru a third, fourth, fifth and set up a sixth consecutive term in the Prem.
Years 12-13, Roberto de Zerbi - Premier League & Europa League
Potter left in Sept '22 when joining Chelsea and was replaced by the similarly young but Italian coach - who'd left Shakhtar Donetsk in July due to war in Ukraine. De Zerbi began work at BHA during the first international break, so had very little time to acclimatize to demands of the Prem. However his success was impressive and elevated Seagulls to fly higher than ever before, reaching European competiton as a consequence. He left after two seasons of relative success for a club of our size. De Zerbi next signed for Marseille.
Years 14- Fabian Hurzeler - Premier League
Bloom & Barber next offered the head coach position to Fabian Hurzeler, who had steered St Pauli to the Bundesliga 2 title in 2024. At 31 he became the youngest Prem manager.
* * * * *

* * * Fabian Hurzeler * * *

In June '24 Bloom & Barber moved for Fabian Hurzeler to replace Roberto de Zebi as head coach who had left in May.
The US-born coach had just led St Pauli to the Bundesliga 2 title but came on board at BHA and was 'excited to be part of the project.'
Hurzeler's CV was limited as a player who quit in his early twenties but readily took up coaching. Experience with Germany U20s & U18s. Asssistant at St Pauli in 2020 and later in charge of deciding the team-sheet. In the last eighteen months he prepared and took the div2 side up towards promotion and ready for the Bundesliga elite level. In all Albion's pre-season friendlies, opening Prem fixtures and League Cup ties, Hurzeler was undefeated and won Manager of the Month award for August '24. He received his first red card at the Amex in late Sept. During early December FH was again in the stands for picking up another yellow card.

* * * * *

SQUADS 13-14

Falmer Years: 2023 to 2025 (seasons 13-14) Premier League (7th & 8th terms) & PL2 (U21/18) groups.

TOTAL Prem apps/goals '17 to '25: see Players stats in long scroll below . record @ 6/12/24.
strikers: Welbeck 122/29 Mitoma 66/13 Ferguson 55/13 Pedro 39/13 Adingra 41/7 Enciso 39/4 Rutter 13/2 Minteh 9/1
midfield: March 182/14 Moder 59/0 Milner 18/0 Baleba 38/2 Hinshelwood 23/4 Ayari 14/0 Wieffer 10/0 O'Riley 4/1 Gruda 5/0
defence: Dunk 251/16 Webster 127/6 Lamptey 91/1 Veltman 131/4 Estupinan 65/3 van Hecke 48/0 Julio 33/0 Kadioglu 6/1
keeper: Verbruggen 33, Steele 35
ool: Scherpen (gk) 0 Buonanotte 40/4 Moran 1/0 Baker-Boaitey 5/0 Barco 6/0 Sarmiento 15/0
* * * * *

Year14 squad 24-25 - 8th PL season ~ 4th . record @ 6/12/24
head coach: Fabian Hurzeler . assistant coach: Andrew Crofts . gk 1st team coach: Jack Stern
25 man Prem squad with 8 homegrown players + registered U21s
APPS: 1 Verbruggen (gk) 12, 2 Lamptey 1+2, 3 Julio 7+2, 4 Webster 2+1, 5 Dunk 9+1, 6 Milner 3, 7 March 0, 8 Gruda 0+5, 9 Pedro 6+2,
10 Enciso 0+7, 11 Adingra 3+7, 12 -, 13 -, 14 Rutter 10+3, 15 Moder 0+2, 16 (Sarmiento) 0+1, 17 Minteh 5+4, 18 Welbeck 13,
19 (Barco), 20 Baleba 9+2, 21 -, 22 Mitoma 13+1, 23 Steele (gk) 2, 24 Kadioglu 5+1, 25 -, 26 Ayari 7+4,
27 Wieffer 3+7, 28 Ferguson 1+8, 29 van Hecke 11+1, 30 Estupinan 8+3, 31 (Sima), 32 Peupion 0, 33 O'Riley 2+2, 34 Veltman 11,
35 -, 36 (Moran), 37 -, 38 Cahill (gk) 0, 39 (Rushworth) (gk), 40 (Yalcouye), 41 Hinshelwood 10,
42 -, 43 -, 44 McConville 0, 45 -, 46 Ifill, 47 Samuels 0, 48 Turns 0, 49 (Offiah),
50 Mullins, 51 (O'Mahony), 52 Duffus, 53 Slater 0, 54 -, 55 Flower

ban: (Baleba) . injured: Webster Kadioglu Hinshelwood
(Veltman Dunk Minteh Pedro O'Riley Welbeck Adingra van Hecke
Milner Ferguson Estupinan Verbruggen Wieffer March Gruda)

Verbruggen -- -- 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Steele . . . . . 1 2 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --- --- --- ---
Lamptey . . . - -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 9 -- --- --- 13 14
Julio . . . . . . - -- -- -- -- 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Webster . . . 1 - -- -- -- 6 7 -- -- -- --- --- --- ---
Dunk. . . . . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 --- --- --- --- 13 14
Milner. . . . . 1 2 3 -- -- -- -- -- -- --- --- ---- -- ---
March . . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --- --- --- --- ---
Gruda . . . . -- -- -- -- -- - 7 - 9 10 11 --- --- 14
Pedro . . . . 1 2 3 -- 5 -- -- -- -- -- 11 12 13 14
Enciso . . . -- 2 3 4 -- 6 7 8 9 --- --- --- ---
Adingra . . 1 2 3 4 5 -- -- -- -- 10 11 12 13 14
Rutter . .. . -- 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Moder . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 10 11 --- ---
Sarmiento . 1 -- x
Minteh. . . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 -- -- --- --- --- 13 14
Welbeck . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 ---
Baleba . . . -- 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 --- 11 12 --- 14
Mitoma . . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Kadioglu . -- -- -- 4 -- 6 7 8 9 10 --- --- --- --- ---
Ayari . . . . . 1 2 3 4 -- 6 -- 8 9 10 11 12 13 ---
Wieffer . . . 1 -- -- -- 5 6 7 8 9 10 --- 12 13 14
Ferguson . -- -- -- 4 5 6 -- 8 9 10 --- 12 13 14
van Hecke . 1 2 3 4 5 -- -- 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Estupinan . -- -- 3 -- 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
O'Riley . . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 11 12 13 14
Veltman. . . 1 2 3 4 5 -- 7 8 9 10 11 12 --- ---
Hinchwood 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 -- 10 11 --- --- ---

apps CUPS: EFL2/3/4 & FAC3 rounds @ 30/10/24
1 Verbruggen (gk) 1, 2 Lamptey 2+1, 3 Julio 3, 4 Webster 2, 5 Dunk 0, 6 Milner 0, 7 March 0, 8 Gruda 1, 9 Pedro 0,
10 Enciso 3, 11 Adingra 3, 12 -, 13 -, 14 Rutter 0, 15 Moder 2, 16 (Sarmiento) 1, 17 Minteh 1, 18 Welbeck 0+2,
19 (Barco) 0, 20 Baleba 2, 21 -, 22 Mitoma 0+1, 23 Steele (gk) 3, 24 Kadioglu 1+1, 25 -, 26 Ayari 1+1, 27 Wieffer 1+1, 28 Ferguson 2,
29 van Hecke 1, 30 Estupinan 1+2, 31 (Sima) 0, 32 Peupion 0+1, 33 O'Riley 1, 34 Veltman 0+1, 37 {Weir} 0+1,
40 (Yalcoure) 0, 41 Hinshelwood 1+1, 47 Samuels 1, 49 (Offiah) 0+1, 51 (O'Mahony) 0+1
* * * * *

GOALS: strikers - Welbeck 6 Pedro 4 Rutter 2 Ferguson 1 = 13
m-f - Mitoma 3 Adingra 1 Baleba 2 Minteh 1 O'Riley 1 = 8
def - Dunk 0 Hinshelwood 1 Veltman 0 Kadioglu 1 = 2 . og = 0 . total = 23

home goals: Welbeck 4 Pedro 2 Mitoma 1 Adingra 0 Ferguson 1
Dunk 0 Hinshelwood 1 Veltman 0 Rutter 1 Baleba 0 Minteh 1 Kadioglu 0 O'Riley 1 og 0 = 12
away goals: Welbeck 2 Pedro 2 Mitoma 2 Adingra 1 Ferguson 0
Dunk 0 Hinshelwood 0 Veltman 0 Rutter 1 Baleba 2 Minteh 0 Kadioglu 1 O'Riley 0 og 0 = 11

cups GOALS: Adingra 3 Sarmiento Webster O'Mahony Baleba Kadioglu Lamptey = 9

CARDS: red - Baleba
yellow - Milner van Hecke 3 Minteh 2 Pedro Hinshelwood 3 Veltman Verbruggen 2 Baleba 2 Welbeck Dunk 3 Estupinan 2 Julio 3 Ayari 2 Rutter 2 Kadioglu O'Riley Wieffer
cups: Ayari Julio Estupinan Hinshelwood Moder Ferguson Webster
* * * * *

Year13 squad 23-24 - 7th PL season ~ 11th . record @ 20/5/24
head coach: Roberto de Zerbi . 1st team coach: Andrew Crofts.
APPS: 1 Verbruggen (gk) 21, 2 Lamptey 10+9, 3 Julio 17+7, 4 Webster 13+2, 5 Dunk 33, 6 Milner 11+4, 7 March 7, 8 (Dahoud) 6+3,
9 Pedro 19+12, 10 Enciso 5+7, 11 Gilmour 24+6, 12 -, 13 Gross 34+2, 14 Lallana 13+12, 15 Moder 6+11, 16 (Scherpen) (gk), 17 (Alzate),
18 Welbeck 21+8, 19 Barco 3+3, 20 Baleba 15+12, 21 (Undav), 22 Mitoma 15+4, 23 Steele (gk) 17, 24 Adringa 25+6, 25 -, 26 (Ayari),
27 -, 28 Ferguson 15+12, 29 van Hecke 26+2, 30 Estupinan 15+4, 31 Fati 3+16, 32 -, 33 -, 34 Veltman 17+10,
35 -, 36 (Moran), 37 (Weir), 38 McGill (gk) 0, 39 (Turns), 40 Buonanotte 17+10, 41 Hinshelwood 8+4,
42 Offiah 1+3, 43 (Samuels), 44 Peupion 0, 45 (Hinchy), 46 (Leonard), 47 Baker-Boaitey 0+5, 48 Chouchane 0, 49 Ifill 0,
50 Jackson 0, 52 Kavanagh 0, 53 Barrington 0, 55 O'Mahony 1+2, 56 Duffus 0

ban: (Gilmour Dunk Dahoud) . injured: Dunk, Ferguson, Mitoma, March, Hinshelwood, Estupinan, Milner, van Hecke, Veltman,
(Pedro, Lallana, Lamptey, Gilmour, Webster, Enciso, Fati, Adingra, Julio, Buonanotte,
Welbeck, Moder, Gross)

Verbruggen . - - 3 4 - 6 -- 8 -- -- 11 --- 13 --- ---- 16 17 18 ---- --- ---- --- 23 --- 25 26 --- 28 29 30 31 32 ---- 34 35 36 37 ---
Steele . . . . . 1 2 - - 5 - 7 -- 9 10 --- 12 --- 14 15 ---- ---- ---- 19 20 21 22 --- 24 --- --- 27 --- --- ---- --- --- 33 ---- --- ---- --- 38
Lamptey . . . - - -- 4 5 6 7 -- -- --- --- --- 13 --- --- ---- --- ---- --- ---- 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 --- --- ---- --- 36 37 38
Julio . . . . . . - - - -- -- -- -- 8 9 10 11 12 -- 14 15 16 17 18 19 ---- ---- 22 23 --- 25 26 ---- 28 --- 30 --- 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Webster . . . - 2 3 -- -- 6 7 - -- 10 ---- 12 --- --- ---- --- ---- --- --- 20 21 --- --- --- 25 --- 27 --- --- ---- --- --- ---- 34 35 36 37 38
Dunk . . . . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 --- 13 --- ---- 16 17 18 19 ---- 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 ---
Milner. . . . . 1 2 3 4 5 - -- -- 9 --- 11 --- ---- 14 15 16 17 --- 19 20 21 22 --- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ---- --- ---- --- --- ---- --- --- ---
March. . . . . 1 2 3 4 -- - 7 8 9 --- ---- --- ---- --- ---- --- ---- --- ---- --- ---- --- ---- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---- --- ---- --- ---- ----
(Dahoud) . . 1 2 -- 4 5 6 -- - -- 10 11 12 --- ---- ---- 16 --- ---- --- ---- --- ---- x
Pedro. . . . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 --- --- --- --- ---- ---- 30 31 32 33 34 35 ---- 37 38
Enciso . . . . 1 2 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ---- ---- --- --- 26 27 28 --- 30 31 --- ---- 34 35 36 37 38
Gilmour . . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 - 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 --- --- --- ---- --- ---- --- 34 35 36 37 38
Gross. . . . . 1 2 3 4 5 - -- 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Lallana . . . - 2 3 4 5 -- -- - -- 10 11 12 13 14 ---- 16 17 18 19 20 21 --- 23 24 ---- 26 27 28 29 30 --- 32 33 ---- --- ---- --- 38
Moder . . . . . - - -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --- --- 13 --- 15 --- ---- 18 19 20 --- 22 ---- --- 25 --- 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 ---- 35 36 --- 38
Welbeck. . . 1 2 3 -- 5 6 7 8 9 --- --- --- --- --- ---- ---- 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 --- 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Baleba . . . . - - -- -- -- 6 7 8 9 10 --- 12 13 14 15 16 ---- 18 19 --- --- 22 23 24 --- ---- 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Mitoma. . . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 --- 14 15 16 17 18 ---- --- --- ---- --- 24 25 --- --- --- --- ---- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ---
Adingra . . . 1 -- 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 --- --- ---- ---- --- --- 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Ferguson . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 --- 13 14 15 16 17 --- 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 --- --- ---- --- --- ---- ---- --- ---
van Hecke. . 1 - -- 4 5 - -- 8 9 --- 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 --- ---- --- ---- ---
Estupinan. . 1 2 3 4 -- 6 7 -- -- --- --- --- --- ---- --- --- --- --- 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 --- 31 32 --- --- ---- --- ---- ---
Fati . . . . . . . - - -- -- 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 --- --- --- ---- ---- --- --- --- ---- 23 24 25 26 27 28 --- --- 31 32 ---- --- --- ---- 37 38
Veltman . . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 --- 17 --- --- --- ---- --- ---- 24 --- 26 27 28 29 30 --- 32 33 34 35 36 ---- ---
Buonanotte - -- -- -- - 6 -- -- - 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 --- 29 30 31 32 ---- 34 35 36 37 ---
Hinshwood - -- -- -- -- -- 7 --- -- -- -- 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 --- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ---- --- --- ---- --- --- --- ---

apps EU LG: 3 x H&A group ties + 2 R16.
1 Verbruggen 3, 2 Lamptey 3+1, 3 Julio 4+2, 4 Webster 0+1, 5 Dunk 7, 6 Milner 3+2, 7 March 2+0, 8 Dahoud 2+2, 9 Pedro 5+1,
10 Enciso 2, 11 Gilmour 6+2, 13 Gross 8, 14 Lallana 1+1, 15 Moder 0, 18 Welbeck 3+1, 20 Baleba 0+5,
22 Mitoma 6+0, 23 Steele 5+0, 24 Adingra 6+2, 28 Ferguson 1+6, 29 van Hecke 7, 30 Estupinan 2+2, 31 Fati 4+3, 34 Veltman 4+2,
40 Buonanotte 2+3, 41 Hishelwood 2, 44 Peupion 0, 47 Baker-Boaitey 0

apps CUPS: EFL3 & FAC3/4/5 rounds.
1 Verbruggen 3, 2 Lamptey 1+1, 3 Julio 3, 4 Webster 1+1, 5 Dunk 2+1, 6 Milner 0, 7 March 0+1, 8 Dahoud 1, 9 Pedro 3,
10 Enciso 0+1, 11 Gilmour 2+1, 13 Gross 3, 14 Lallana 0+3, 15 Moder 2, 18 Welbeck 0+4, 19 Barco 0+1, 20 Baleba 1+3,
22 Mitoma 1, 23 Steele 1, 24 Adingra 1, 28 Ferguson 2, 29 van Hecke 4, 30 Estupinan 4, 31 Fati 2, 34 Veltman 0,
40 Buonanotte 4, 41 Hishelwood 2+1, 42 Offiah 0 44 Peupion 1+1 47 Baker-Boaitey 0+1
* * * * *

GOALS: strikers - Ferguson 6 Pedro 9 Adingra 6 Welbeck 5 Fati 2 = 28
m-f - March 3 Mitoma 3 Gross 4 Buonanotte 3 = 13
def - Estupinan 2 Dunk 3 Hinshelwood 3 Veltman 1 = 9 . og = 5

home goals: Ferguson 5 March 1 Pedro 5 Adingra 4 Mitoma 2 Estupinan 1 Gross 2 Welbeck 1 Fati 0
Dunk 3 Buonanotte 1 Hinshelwood 3 Veltman 0 og 2 = 30
away goals: Ferguson 1 March 2 Pedro 4 Adingra 2 Mitoma 1 Estupinan 1 Gross 2 Welbeck 4 Fati 2
Dunk 0 Buonanotte 2 Hinshelwood 0 Veltman 1 og 3 = 25

EU LG goals: group games . Pedro 6 Gross 1 Fati 2 Adingra 1, Welbeck 1 = 11
CUPS goals: EFL/FAC rounds. Pedro 5 Estupinan Dunk Buonanotte Welbeck = 9

CARDS: Prem red - Dahoud Dunk Gilmour . yellows - Estupinan 4 Mitoma 4 Gross 6 Milner 3 Enciso 2 Pedro 2 Lamptey 3 Lallana 2 Dahoud
van Hecke 4 Dunk 7 Gilmour 8 Veltman 4 Welbeck 4 Fati 2 Baleba 7 Julio 4 March Adingra 3 Buonanotte 7 Verbruggen 3
Ferguson Hinshelwood Webster Moder 2 Barco Baker-Boaitey = 80
cups; all comps - Julio 2 Estupian 3 van Hecke 4 Welbeck Baleba Gross Veltman 2 Dunk Ferguson Mitoma 2 Pedro 2
Steel Lallana Buonanotte Fati Lamptey = 25
* * * * *

PL2: head coach - Shannon Ruth . U18: Inigo Calderon.
U21 - 50 Mullins, 51 (O;Mahony), 52 Duffus, 53 Slater, 54 -, 55 Flower, 56 C Vickers, 57 Knight, 58 Ryan, 59 Mills, 60 Tasker,
61 Hall (gk), 62 Fisher (gk), 63 Mazilu, 64 Penman, 65 Albarus, 66 Owuso, 67 Moulton, 68 Bashir, 69 (Doyle), 70 Atom,
71 Simmonds, 72 Howell, 73 Robertson, 74 Mansell (gk), 75 Ferdinand (gk), 76 -, 77 -, 78 -, 79 -, 80 Belmont,
U18 - 81 Lee, 82 -, 83 -, 84 -, 85 J Vickers, 86 -, 87 -, 88 Gorman, 89 -,
90 Mthunzi, 91 West, 92 Haydon, 93 Mackley, 94 -, 95 -, 96 -, 97 Guizar, 98 Nti, 99 Oriola,
William Rutter, Finley Taylor, Sebastian Ademola, Isaiah Alakiu, Tate Ferdinand, Theo Outen, Billy-Rae Cullinane,
Younes Ibrahim, Darius Lane, Jesse Middleton, Tyler Silsby
* * * * *

out on loan: Aug '24 - McGill (gk) (MK Dons), Scherpen (gk) (S Graz), Beadle (gk) (Sheff Wed), Jackson (Livingstone),
Buonanotte (Leicester), Barrington (Grimsby), Baker-Boaitey (Port Vale), Nilsson (Partick), Ozman (Feyenoord),
Doyle (Exeter), Moran (Stoke), Chouchane (Northampton), Sima (Brest), Barco (Sevilla), O'Mahony (Portsmouth),
Yalcouye (Sturm Graz), Rushworth (Hull), Cozier-Duberry (Blackburn), Sarmiento (Burnley), Offiah (Blackpool)
Jan '24 - Weir (Port Vale), Beadle (Sheff Wed), Sarmiento (Ipswich), Dahoud (Stuttgart),
Hinchy (Shrewsbury), Samuels (Fleetwood), Turns (Crewe), Mazilu (Arnhem)
Aug '23 - Peupion (Cheltenham), Moran (Blackburn), Ayari (Coventry), Undav (Stuttgart),
Sarmiento (West Brom), Kozlowski (Arnhem), Scherpen (gk) (S Graz), Sima (Rangers),
Beadle (gk) (Oxford), Rushworth (gk) (Swansea), Turns (Orient), Leonard (Northampton),
Weir (Blackpool), Offiah (Hearts), Alzate (S Liege)

signings PL/PL2 Aug '24: Mats Wieffer (Feyenoord 25m), Yankuba Minteh (Newcastle 30m), Amario Cozier-Duberry (Arsenal),
Malick Yalcouye (Gothenburg 6m), Ibrahim Osman (Nords'land 16m), Brajan Gruda (Mainz 25m),
Georginio Rutter (Leeds 40m), Matt O'Riley (Celtic 25m), Ferdi Kadioglu (Fenerbahce 25m)
Jan '24: Adrian Mazilu (F Constanta), Valentin Barco (Boca Jun), Steve Hall (gk) (Adelaide),
Kam Doyle (Southampton), Cay Vickers (Reading), Josh Robertson (Sunderland)
'23: Ansu Fati (Barca loan), Carlos Baleba (Lille 23m), Igor Julio (Fiorentina 15m), Bart Verbruggen (gk) (Anderlecht 16m),
Mahmoud Dahoud (B Dortmund), James Milner (Liverpool), Joao Pedro (Watford 30m),
U21s: Louis Flower (Chelsea), Noel Atom (RB Leipzig), Jacob Slater (Preston), Brody Peart (Basingstoke), Joe Belmont (Liverpool)

left '24: Gross (B Dortmund), Lallana (Soton), Undav (Stuttgart), Alzate, Kozlowski (Gaziantep),
Hinchy (Notts Co), Kavanagh (Bohemiens), Leonard (Birmingham), Peart (Wyconbe), Reid, Smith, Fuller, Lewis,
Weir (Wigan), Gilmour (Napoli), Dahood (Frankfurt)
'23: Caicedo (Chelsea), Sanchez (Chelsea), Connolly (Hull), Colwill (Chelsea), Mac Allister (Liverpool), Tsoungui (Feyenoord),
Roberts (Bristol City), T Jenks (Forest Green), Richards (QPR), Spong (Queens Park), Tolaj (Aldershot),
Khadra (Reims), Karbownik (H Berlin), Furlong (Hull), Zeqiri (Genk)
Bull, Talley (Peterboro), Wilson (Cliftonville), Packham, Miller, Everitt, Winstanley, E Jenks, Gee, Shann, Clark.
* * * * *

see PL & PL2 signings and also Past Players in scroll below
* * * * *

Prem TABLE

24/25 PL Table . . . See also: History & Travel via main Stats and also Clubs tab above - record @ 2/12/24 . next update 10/12/24

Po . Pl . GD . Pt . pt/gm Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23/24
01 . 13 . 18 . . 34 .. 2.61 L'pool . . . 62 . . 91 .. 2.39 Man City
02 . 13 . 12 . . 25 .. 1.92 Ars'nl . . . 62 . . 89 .. 2.34 Arsenal
03 . 13 . 12 . . 25 .. 1.92 Ch'sea . . . 45 . . 82 .. 2.15 Liverpool
04 . 13 . 05 . . 23 .. 1.72 Br'ton . . . 15 . . 68 .. 1.78 A Villa
05 . 13 . 03 . . 23 .. 1.72 Man C . . . 13 . . 66 .. 1.73 Spurs
06 . 13 . 03 . . 22 .. 1.69 Forest . . . 14 . . 63 .. 1.65 Chelsea
07 . 13 . 14 . . 20 .. 1.53 Spurs. . . . 23 . . 60 .. 1.57 Newcastle
08 . 13 . 03 . . 20 .. 1.53 Br'frd . . . -01 .. 60 .. 1.57 Man Utd
09 . 13 . 04 . . 19 .. 1.46 Man U . . . -14 .. 52 .. 1.36 West Ham
10 . 13 . 00 . . 19 .. 1.46 Ful'hm . . . -01 .. 49 .. 1.28 Palace
11 . 13 . 00 . . 19 .. 1.46 N'cstle . . . -07 .. 48 .. 1.26 Brighton
12 . 13 . -03 .. 19 .. 1.46 A Villa . . . -13 .. 48 .. 1.26 B'mouth
13 . 13 . -01 .. 18 .. 1.38 5 B'mth . . . -06 .. 47 .. 1.23 Fulham
14 . 13 . -07 .. 15 .. 1.15 W Ham . . . -15 .. 46 .. 1.21 Wolves
15 . 13 . -11 .. 11 .. 0.84 Ev'ton . . . -11 .. 40 .. 1.05 Everton (8pt deduction)
16 . 13 . -11 .. 10 .. 0.76 Lester . . . -09 .. 39 .. 1.02 Brentford
17 . 13 . -07 .. 09 .. 0.69 Palace . . . -18 .. 32 .. 0.84 Forest (4pt deduction)
18 . 13 . -10 .. 09 .. 0.69 Wolvs . . . -33 .. 26 .. 0.68 Luton - rel
19 . 13 . -11 .. 09 .. 0.69 Ipwch . . . -37 .. 24 .. 0.63 Burnley - rel
20 . 13 . -15 .. 05 .. 0.38 So'ton . . . -69 .. 16 .. 0.42 Sheff Utd - rel

. . . . . . . . . 22/23 . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . 21/22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20/21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19/20
01 . 38 . 61 . . 89 .. 2.34 Man C (C) . . . 73 . . 93 .. 2.44 Man Cty (C) . . . . 51 . . 86 .. 2.26 Man Cty (C) . . . . 52 . . 99 .. 2.60 Liverpool (C)
02 . 38 . 45 . . 84 .. 2.21 Arsenal. . . . . 68 . . 92 .. 2.42 Liv'pool. . . . . . . 29 . . 74 .. 1.94 Man Utd . . . . . . . 67 . . 81 .. 2.13 Man City
03 . 38 . 15 . . 75 .. 1.97 Man Utd . . . . 43 . . 74 .. 1.94 Chelsea. . . . . . . 26 . . 69 .. 1.81 Liv'pool . . . . . . . 30 . . 66 .. 1.73 Man Utd
04 . 38 . 35 . . 71 .. 1.86 N'castle. . . . . 29 . . 71 .. 1.86 Spurs . . . . . . . . 22 . . 67 .. 1.76 Chelsea. . . . . . . . 15 . . 66 .. 1.73 Chelsea
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
05 . 38 . 28 . . 67 .. 1.76 Liv'pool . . . . 13 . . 69 .. 1.81 Arsenal. . . . . . . 18 . . 66 .. 1.73 Leic'ter. . . . . . . . . 26 . . 62 .. 1.63 Leicester
06 . 38 . 19 . . 62 .. 1.63 Bri'ton . . . . . 00 . . 58 .. 1.52 Man Utd . . . . . . 15 . . 65 .. 1.71 West Hm . . . . . . . 14 . . 59 .. 1.55 Spurs
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
07 . 38 . 05 . . 61 .. 1.60 A Villa . . . . . 09 . . 56 .. 1.47 W Ham . . . . . . . 23 . . 62 .. 1.63 Spurs. . . . . . . . . . 11 . . 59 .. 1.55 Wolves
08 . 38 . 07 . . 60 .. 1.57 Spurs. . . . . . 03 . . 52 .. 1.36 Leic'ter . . . . . . . 16 . . 61 .. 1.60 Arsenal . . . . . . . . 08 . . 56 .. 1.47 Arsenal
09 . 38 . 12 . . 59 .. 1.55 Br'ford. . . . . -02 .. 51 .. 1.34 Bri'ton. . . . . . . . 08 . . 59 .. 1.55 Leeds. . . . . . . . . . 00 . . 54 .. 1.42 Sheff Utd
10 . 38 . 02 . . 52 .. 1.36 Fulham . . . . -05 .. 51 .. 1.34 Wolves. . . . . . . -01 . . 59 .. 1.55 Everton. . . . . . . . -07 .. 54 .. 1.42 Burnley
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 . 38 . -09 .. 45 .. 1.18 Palace. . . . . -18 .. 49 .. 1.28 N'castle. . . . . . . 09 . . 55 .. 1.44 A Villa . . . . . . . . . -09 .. 52 .. 1.36 So'ton
12 . 38 . -09 .. 44 .. 1.15 Chelsea . . . . 04 .. 48 .. 1.26 Palace . . . . . . . -16 ... 45 .. 1.18 N'castle. . . . . . . . -12 .. 49 .. 1.28 Everton
13 . 38 . -27 .. 41 .. 1.07 Wolves. . . . . -08 .. 46 .. 1.21 Br'ford . . . . . . . -16 ... 45 .. 1.18 Wolves . . . . . . . . -20 .. 44 .. 1.15 N'castle
14 . 38 . -13 .. 40 .. 1.05 W Ham. . . . . -02 .. 45 .. 1.18 A Villa . . . . . . . -25 ... 44 .. 1.15 Palace . . . . . . . .. -19 .. 43 .. 1.13 Palace
15 . 38 . -34 .. 39 .. 1.02 B'mouth. . . . -24 .. 40 .. 1.05 So'ton. . . . . . . . -21 ... 43 .. 1.13 So'ton . . . . . . . .. -15 .. 41 .. 1.07 Bri'ton
16 . 38 . -30 .. 38 .. 1.00 Forest . . . . . -23 .. 39 .. 1.02 Everton. . . . . . . -06 ... 41 .. 1.07 Bri'ton . . . . . . . .. -13 .. 39 .. 1.02 West Ham
17 . 38 . -23 .. 36 .. 0.94 Everton . . . . -37 .. 38 .. 1.00 Leeds . . . . . . . . -22 ... 39 .. 1.02 Burnley . . . . . . .. -26 .. 35 .. 0.92 Aston Villa
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
18 . 38 . -17 .. 34 .. 0.89 Le'ster (R). . . -19 .. 35 .. 0.92 Burnley (R) . . . . -26 ... 28 .. 0.73 Fulham (R). . . . . -25 .. 34 .. 0.89 B'mouth - (R)
19 . 38 . -30 .. 31 .. 0.81 Leeds (R) . . . -43 .. 23 .. 0.60 Watford (R) . . . . -41 ... 26 .. 0.68 W Brom (R) . . . . -28 .. 34 .. 0.89 Watford - (R)
20 . 38 . -37 .. 25 .. 0.65 So'ton (R) . . . -61 .. 22 .. 0.57 Norwich (R). . . . -43 ... 23 .. 0.60 Sheff Utd (R) . . . -49 .. 21 .. 0.55 Norwich - (R)

Prem previous encounters

see at top via main Stats tab: FALMER YEARS A-Z club list, for previous encounters - shown with P
also CLUBS tab: for all Prem opponents details.
HISTORY & TRAVEL shows current Prem sides campaign info, reports and past meetings home & away.

PREM clubs per campaign: seasons 7-14.
Arsenal 7-14 W5 D4 L6, Aston Villa 9-14 W2 D2 L6, Bournemouth 7-9, 12-14 W5 D1 L5, Brentford 11-14 W3 D2 L1, Burnley 7-11 13 W2 D7 L3,
Cardiff 8 W0 D0 L2, Chelsea 7-14 W2 D4 L9, Cry Pal 7-14 W4 D7 L3, Everton 7-14 W5 D4 L6, Fulham 8,10,12-14 W0 D4 L5,
Hudd'fld 7-8 W2 D1 L1, Ipswich 14 W0 D1 L0, Leeds 10-12 W3 D3 L0, Leicester 7-12 14 W2 D4 L6, Liverpool 7-14 W2 D4 L9, Luton 13 W1 D0 L1,
Man City 7-14 W2 D1 L12, Man Utd 7-14 W7 D0 L8, Newcastle 7-14 W6 D7 L2, Norwich 9 & 11 W2 D2 L0, Nott'm Forest 12-14 W2 D2 L1,
Sheff Utd 9-10 13 W1 D3 L2, So'ton 7-12 14 W3 D7 L3, Stoke 7 W0 D2 L0, Swansea 7 W2 D0 L0, Tottenham 7-14 W5 D1 L9,
Watford 7-9 & 11 W4 D3 L1, West Brom 7 & 10 W1 D1 L2, West Ham 7-14 W6 D7 L1, Wolves 8-14 W5 D6 L2
* * * * *

17-24 Home: W7 6 5 4 5 10 8 3 . D8 5 7 9 7 4 6 4 . L04 08 7 6 7 5 5 0 = W47 D49 L42 . Best - '23 Worst '22
17-24 Away: W2 3 4 5 7 08 4 3 . D5 4 7 5 8 4 6 1 . L12 12 8 9 4 7 9 3 = W36 D40 L64 . Best '23 Worst '17

Falmer years: Prem terms 1-7 17/18-23/24 = final position/points totals (forecast targets after start)
1 '18 = 15th/40pts (17th/38pts) . . 2 '19 = '17/36 (12/45) . . 3 '20 = 15/41 (13/44) . . 4 '21 = 16/41 (17/40) . .
5 '22 = 9/51 (12/54) . . 6 '23 = 6/62 (8/56) . . 7 '24 = 11/48 (6/65) . . 8 '25 = 5/23 (10/57) record @ 6/12/24.

see also: per season details in STATS PLUS section, via main Stats tab at top.
* * * * *

STATS & TARGETS

SEQUENCES: runs, points per game, position, points.
*** runs *** : wwd ddl wwd lww dl = w6 d5 l3 for first half 1 to 19 games . unbeaten = 5 losing = 1
second half: xxx xxx = w0 d0 l0 totals from 20 to 38 games . unbeaten = 0 losing = 0

Index: 1st half - 3.0 3.0 2.33 2.0 1.8 1.5 1.71 1.87 1.77 1.6 / 1.72 1.83 1.72 1.64pt/gm.
Index: 2nd half - / pt/gm.
index: total - / pt/gm

Po 1st half: 1 2 3 6 7 9 6 5 6 8 / 6 5 4 5 - record @ 6/12/24
Po 2nd half: x / - record @ 29/12/24.

Points Q1-2: 3 6 7 8 9 9 12 15 16 16 / 19 22 23 23 - record @ 6/12/24
Points Q3-4: / - record @ 4/1/25
Points Q2+: / - record @ 4/1/25
* * * * *

Wins by : 1 = 5, 2 = 0, 3 = 1, 4 = 0, 5 = 0, 6 = 0 all = 6 . score last: 2/6 = 33.3%
Lose by : 1 = 1, 2 = 2, 3 = 0, 4 = 0, 5 = 0, 6 = 0 all = 3 . score first: 1/3 = 33.3%
Draw by : 0 = 1, 1 = 2, 2 = 2, 3 = 0, 4 = 0, 5 = 0 all = 5 . leads first : 2/4 = 50.0% - record @ 6/12/24

Rslt 0-0 1-0 1-1 2-0 2-1 2-2 3-0 3-1 3-2 3-3 4-0 4-1 4-2 5-0 5-1 5-2 6-0 6-1
Wins --- --1- --- --0- --3- ---- --1- --0- --1- ---- --0- -0- -0- -0- --0- --0- --0- --0- = 6 - F13 A5 GD8 scoring first : 4/6 = 66.6%
Lose --- --0- --- --0- --1- ---- --0- --1- --0- ---- --0- -0- -1- -0- --0- --0- --0- --0- = 3 - F4 A9 GD-5, concede first: 2/3 = 66.6%
Draw -1- --- -2- ---- ---- --2- ----- ---- ----- --0-- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- = 5 - F6 A6 GD0, equalise last : 1/4 = 25.0% - record @ 6/12/24.

Home: 2-1 0-0 2-2 3-2 2-2 2-1 1-1 . W3 D4 L0 . F12 A9 . 13pt = 1.85pt/gm
Away: 0-3 1-1 4-2 0-1 2-1 1-2 3-1 . W3 D1 L3 . F11 A11. 10pt = 1.42pt/gm
H: wdd wdw d . 7 game unbeaten run, 0 game losing run.
A: wdl wlw l . 2 game unbeaten run, 1 game losing run.

clean sheet: 0 x x 0 x x x 0 x x / x x x x x x x x x / x x x x x x x x x x / x x x x x x x x x = 3 of 14 or 21.4%
fail to score: x x x 0 x x x x x x / x x x x x x x x x / x x x x x x x x x x / x x x x x x x x x = 1 of 14 or 07.1%
For: 3 2 1 0 2 2 3 1 2 1 / 2 2 1 1 / / = 23
Agt: 0 1 1 0 2 4 2 0 2 2 / 1 1 1 3 / / = 20
* * * * *

SEASONS COUNTER - compare ongoing Actual numbers after Start, to forecast Required totals.

24-25 -- Pl - Wn Dr Ls - Pt -- W% D% L% - Po - 8th Prem
start .... 10 - 04 04 02 - 16 -- 40 - 40 - 20 -- 08 - - 1-10 record @ 8/11/24
target +28 - 11 08 09 - 41 -- 39 - 28 - 32 -- 10 - - 11-38
actual +4 - 02 01 01 - 07 -- 50 - 25 - 25 -- 05 - - 11-14 record @ 6/12/24
req'd ... 38 - 15 12 11 - 57 -- 39 - 31 - 29 -- 10 - - 1-38
total .... 14 - 06 05 03 - 23 -- 43 - 36 - 21-- 05 - - 1-14

24/25 Stats - 8th PL
Quarterly - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Quarter % - individual & accumulated
Pl . W D L . . . F A . GD . Pt Po . pt/gm - - Q1-4%
14 . 06 05 03 . 23 20 03 . 23 05 - - 1.64 - - - Q2 - 50 25 25 - 43 36 21 record @ 6/12/24
10 . 04 04 02 . 17 14 03 . 16 08 . . 1.60 - - - Q1 - 40 40 20 - xx xx xx start

Individual per Quarter stats (Q 1-4 @ gms 10 - start, 19 - halfway, 29 - threequarters, 38 - final total)
Q2 - H = 1 1 0, A = 1 0 1 . Q = 07pts . F6 A6 gd0 .. 0cln-sht 0fts. 1.75pt/gm. 2 gm hm run. record @ 6/12/24
Q1 - H = 2 3 0, A = 2 1 2 . Q = 16pts . F17 A14 gd3 .. 3cln-sht 1fts. 1.60pt/gm. 5 gm hm run. record @ 8/11/24
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Q+ - H = 3 4 0, A = 3 1 3 . Q = 23pt. F23 A20 gd3. 3cln-sht 1fts 1.64pt/gm . 7 home gm best run
* * * * *

Previous Seasons Counters:
23-24 -- Pl - Wn Dr Ls - Pt -- W% D% L% - Po - 7th Prem
start .... 10 - 05 02 03 - 17 -- 50 - 20 - 30 -- 07 - - 1-10 - record @ 31/10/23
target +28. - 13 09 06 - 48 -- 46 - 32 - 21 -- 06 - - 11-38
actual +28 - 07 10 11 - 31 -- 25 - 36 - 39 -- 11 - - 11-38 record @ 19/5/24
req'd ... 38 - 18 11 09 - 65 -- 47 - 29 - 23 -- 06 - - 1-38
total .... 38 - 12 12 14 - 48 -- 31 - 31 - 37 -- 11 - - 1-38

22-23 -- Pl - Wn Dr Ls - Pt -- W% D% L% - Po - 6th Prem
start .... 10 - 04 03 03 - 15 -- 40 - 30 - 30 -- 08 - - 1-10 - record @ 21/10/22
target +28. - 11 08 09 - 41 -- 39 - 28 - 32 -- 08 - - 11-38
actual +28 - 14 05 09 - 47 -- 50 - 18 - 32 -- 06 - - 11-38 record @ 28/5/23
req'd ... 38 - 15 11 12 - 56 -- 39 - 29 - 31 -- 08 - - 1-38
total .... 38 - 18 08 12 - 62 -- 47 - 21 - 31 -- 06 - - 1-38

21-22 -- Pl - Wn Dr Ls - Pt -- W% D% L% - Po - 5th Prem
Start .... 10 - 04 04 02 - 16 -- 40 - 40 - 20 -- 08 - - 1-10 - record @ 2/11/21
Target +28 - 10 08 10 - 38 -- 35 - 28 - 35 -- 10 - - 11-38
Actual +28 - 08 11 09 - 35 -- 28 - 39 - 32 -- 09 - - 11-38 - record @ 22/5/22
Req'd .. 38 - 14 12 12 - 54 -- 36 - 31 - 31 -- 10 - - 1-38
Total ... 38 - 12 15 11 - 51 -- 31 - 39 - 29 -- 09 - - 1-38

20-21 -- Pl - Wn Dr Ls - Pt -- W% D% L% - Po - 4th Prem
Start .... 10 - 02 04 04 - 10 -- 20 - 40 - 40 -- 16 - - 1-10 - record @ 28/11/20.
Target +28 - 08 06 14 - 30 -- 28 - 21 - 50 -- 17 - - 11-38
Actual +28 - 07 10 11 - 31 -- 25 - 36 - 39 -- 16 - - 11-38 - record @ 23/5/21
Req'd .. 38 - 10 10 18 - 40 -- 26 - 26 - 47 -- 17 - - 1-38
Total ... 38 - 09 14 15 - 41 -- 24 - 37 - 39 -- 16 - - 1-38

19-20 -- Pl - Wn Dr Ls - Pt -- W% D% L% - Po - 3rd Prem
Start .... 10 - 03 03 04 - 12 -- 30 - 30 - 40 -- 14 - - 1-10
Target +28 - 08 08 12 - 32 -- 28 - 28 - 43 -- 13 - - 11-38
Actual +28 - 06 11 11 - 29 -- 21 - 39 - 39 -- 15 - - 11-38 - record @ 26/7/20
Req'd .. 38 - 11 11 16 - 44 -- 29 - 29 - 42 -- 13 - - 1-38
Total ... 38 - 09 14 15 - 41 -- 24 - 37 - 39 -- 15 - - 1-38 - season extended, restarted 17 June, finish 26 July.

18-19 -- Pl - Wn Dr Ls - Pt -- W% D% L% - Po - 2nd Prem
Start .... 10 - 04 02 04 - 14 -- 40 - 20 - 40 -- 11 - - 1-10
Target +28 - 08 07 13 - 31 -- 28 - 25 - 46 -- 12 - - 11-38
Actual +28 - 05 07 16 - 22 -- 18 - 25 - 57 -- 17 - - 11-38
Req'd .. 38 - 12 09 17 - 45 -- 31 - 24 - 45 -- 12 - - 1-38
Total ... 38 - 09 09 20 - 36 -- 24 - 24 - 52 -- 17 - - 1-38

17-18 -- Pl - Wn Dr Ls - Pt -- W% D% L% - Po - 1st Prem
Start .... 10 - 03 03 04 - 12 -- 30 - 30 - 40 -- 12 - - 1-10
Target +28 - 07 05 16 - 26 -- 25 - 18 - 57 -- 17 - - 11-38
Actual +28 - 06 10 12 - 28 -- 21 - 36 - 43 -- 15 - - 11-38
Req'd .. 38 - 10 08 20 - 38 -- 26 - 21 - 53 -- 17 - - 1-38
Total ... 38 - 09 13 16 - 40 -- 24 - 34 - 42 -- 15 - - 1-38

Total . 266 - 78 85 103 - 319 - 29 - 32 - 39 -- 13 - - record @ 20/5/24.
* * * * *

Previous Seasons Stats:
23/24 Stats - 7th PL
Quarterly - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Quarter % - individual & accumulated
Pl . W D L . . . F A . GD . Pt Po . pt/gm - - Q1-4%
38 . 12 12 14 . 55 62 -07 . 48 11 . . 1.26 - - - Q4 - 11 33 55 - 31 31 37 final, record @ 19/5/24
29 . 11 09 09 . 51 46 05 . 42 09 . . 1.44 - - - Q3 - 31 37 31 - 38 31 31 3qtrs, record @ 2/4/24
19 . 08 06 05 . 38 33 05 . 30 08 . . 1.57 - - - Q2 - 33 44 22 - 42 31 26 h'way, record @ 29/12/23
10 . 05 02 03 . 23 19 04 . 17 07 . . 1.70 - - - Q1 - 50 20 30 - xx xx xx Start, record @ 29/10/23

Individual per Quarter stats (Q 1-4 @ gms 10 - start, 19 - halfway, 29 - threequarters, 38 - final total)
Q4 - H = 1 0 4, A = 0 3 1 . Q = 6pts . F4 A16 gd-12 .. 2cln-shts 5fts. 0.66pt/gm. 1 hm gm run. record @ 19/5/24
Q3 - H = 2 2 0, A = 1 1 4 . Q = 12pts . F13 A13 gd0 .. 4cln-shts 4fts. 1.20pt/gm. 4 hm gm run. record @ 2/4/24
Q2 - H = 2 2 0, A = 1 2 2 . Q = 13pts . F15 A14 gd01 .. 0cln-shts 1fts. 1.44pt/gm. 4 hm gm run. record @ 29/12/23
Q1 - H = 3 2 1, A = 2 0 2 . Q = 17pts . F23 A19 gd04 .. 0cln-shts 0fts. 1.70pt/gm. 4 hm gm run. record @ 29/10/23
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Q+ - H = 8 6 5, A = 4 6 9 . Q = 48pts. F55 A62 gd-7 6cln-shts 10fts 1.26pt/gm

22/23 Stats - 6th PL
Pl . W D L . . . F A . GD . Pt Po . pt/gm - - Q1-4%
38 . 18 08 12 . 72 53 19 . 62 06 . . 1.63 - - - Q4 - 44 11 44 - 47 21 31 final total record @ 28/5/23
29 . 14 07 08 . 54 37 17 . 49 08 . . 1.68 - - - Q3 - 50 30 20 - 48 24 27 3quarters record @ 24/4/23
19 . 09 04 06 . 37 27 10 . 31 06 . . 1.63 - - - Q2 - 55 11 33 - 47 21 31 halfway record @ 21/1/23
10 . 04 03 03 . 14 11 03 . 15 08 . . 1.50 - - - Q1 - 40 30 30 - xx xx xx Start, record @ 21/10/22

Q4 - H = 3 1 1, A = 1 0 3 . Q = 13pt . F18 A16 gd02 .. 3 cln-shts 0fts. 1.44pt/gm. 2 hm gm run. record @ 28/5/23
Q3 - H = 3 1 1, A = 2 2 1 . Q = 18pt . F18 A10 gd08 .. 4 cln-shts 1fts. 1.80pt/gm. 3 hm gm run. record @ 24/4/23
Q2 - H = 2 0 2, A = 3 1 1 . Q = 16pt . F23 A16 gd07 .. 1 cln-shts 0fts. 1.77pt/gm. 1 hm gm run. record @ 21/1/23
Q1 - H = 2 2 1, A = 2 1 2 . Q = 15pt . F14 A11 gd03 .. 4 cln-shts 4fts. 1.50pt/gm. 3 hm gm run. record @ 21/10/22.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Q+ - H = 10 4 5, A = 8 4 7 . Q = 62pt. F72 A53 gd19 12 cln-shts 5fts 1.63pt/gm

21/22 Stats - 5th PL
Pl . W D L . . . F A . GD . Pt Po . pt/gm - - Q1-4%
38 . 12 15 11 . 42 44 -02 . 51 09 . . 1.34 - - - Q4% - 55 33 11 - 31 39 29 final total @ 22/5/22
29 . 07 12 10 . 26 36 -10 . 33 13 . . 1.13 - - - Q3% - 10 30 60 - 24 41 34 3quarters record @ 1/4/22
19 . 06 09 04 . 20 20 00 .. 27 09 . . 1.42 - - - Q2% - 22 55 22 - 31 47 21 Halfway record @ 13/1/22
10 . 04 04 02 . 11 11 00 .. 16 08 . . 1.60 - - - Q1% - 40 40 20 - xx xx xx Start, record @ 2/11/21

Q4 - H = 2 2 0, A = 3 1 1 . Q = 18pt . F16 A08 gd08 .. 4 cln-shts 2fts. 2.00pt/gm. 4 hm gm run. Record @ 22/5/22.
Q3 - H = 0 2 4, A = 1 1 2 . Q = 06pt . F06 A16 gd-10 . 1 cln-shts 5fts. 0.60pt/gm. 2 hm gm run. Record @ 1/4/22
Q2 - H = 1 2 1, A = 1 3 1 . Q = 11pt . F09 A09 gd00 .. 2 cln-shts 3fts. 1.00pt/gm. 2 hm gm run. Record @ 13/1/22
Q1 - H = 2 1 2, A = 2 3 0 . Q = 16pt . F11 A11 gd00 .. 4 cln-shts 3fts. 1.60pt/gm. 2 hm gm run. Record @ 2/11/21.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Q+ - H = 5 7 7 , A = 7 8 4 . Q = 51pt. F42 A44 gd-02. 11 cln-shts 13 fts 1.34pt/gm

20/21 Stats - 4th PL
Pl . W D L . .. F A . GD . Pt Po . pt/gm
38 . 9 14 15 . 40 46 -06 . 41 16 . . 1.07 - - - Q4% - 22 33 44 - 24 37 39 Final total, record @ 23/5/21.
29 . 7 11 11 . 32 36 -04 . 32 16 . . 1.10 - - - Q3% - 40 30 30 - 24 38 38 3quarters, record @ 20/3/21.
19 . 3 08 08 . 22 29 -07 . 17 17 . . 0.89 - - - Q2% - 11 44 44 - 16 42 42 Halfway, record @ 25/1/21.
10 . 2 04 04 . 14 16 -02 . 10 16 . . 1.00 - - - Q1% - 20 40 40 - xx xx xx Start, record @ 28/11/20.

Q4 - H = 2 2 0, A = 0 1 4 . Q = 09pt . F08 A10 gd-2 . 3 cln-shts 3fts. 1.00pt/gm. 4 hm gm run. Record @ 23/5/21.
Q3 - H = 2 2 2, A = 2 1 1 . Q = 15pt . F10 A07 gd3 .. 5 cln-shts 3fts . 1.50pt/gm. 3 hm gm run. Record @ 2/4/21.
Q2 - H = 0 2 2, A = 1 2 2 . Q = 07pt . F08 A13 gd-5 . 2 cln-shts 4fts. 0.77pt/gm. 1 hm gm run. Record @ 25/1/21.
Q1 - H = 0 3 2, A = 2 1 2 . Q = 10pt . F14 A16 gd-2 . 2 cln-shts 1fts. 1.00pt/gm. 3 hm gm run. Record @ 28/11/20.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Q+ - H = 4 9 6, A = 5 5 9 . Q = 41pt. F40 A46 gd-6. 12 cln-sht 11fts 1.07pt/gm . 4 home gm best run.

19/20 Stats - 3rd PL
Pl . W D L . .. F A . GD . Pt Po . pt/gm
38 . 9 14 15 . 39 54 -15 . 41 15 . . 1.07 - - - Q4% - 33 33 33 - 23 37 39 Final total - record @ 26/7/20.
29 . 6 11 12 . 32 40 -08 . 29 15 . . 1.00 - - - Q3% - 10 60 30 - 21 38 41 Threequarters - Prem suspended
19 . 5 05 09 . 22 28 -06 . 20 15 . . 1.05 - - - Q2% - 22 22 47 - 26 26 47 Halfway
10 . 3 03 04 . 12 14 -02 . 12 14 . . 1.20 - - - Q1% - 30 30 40 - xx xx xx Start

Q4 - H = 1 1 3, A = 2 2 0 . Q = 12pt . F07 A14 gd-7 . 3 cln-sht 3fts . 1.33pt/gm . 1 hm-gm run. Prem restarted.
Q3 - H = 1 3 1, A = 0 3 2 . Q = 09pt . F10 A12 gd-2 . 2 cln-sht 3fts . 0.90pt/gm . 4 hm-gm run. Prem suspended
Q2 - H = 1 1 2, A = 1 1 3 . Q = 08pt . F10 A14 gd-4 . 1 cln-sht 2fts . 0.88pt/gm . 1 hm-gm run.
Q1 - H = 2 2 1, A = 1 1 3 . Q = 12pt . F12 A14 gd-2 . 3 cln-sht 4fts . 1.20pt/gm . 3 hm-gm run.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Q+ - H = 5 7 7, A = 4 7 8 . Q = 41pt. F39 A54 gd-15. 9 cln-sht 12fts 1.07pt/gm . 4 hm-gm best run. Record @ 26/7/20

18/19 Stats - 2nd PL
Pl . W D L . .. F A . GD . Pt Po . pt/gm
38 . 9 09 20 . 35 60 -25 . 36 17 . . 0.94 - - - Q4% - 00 33 67 - 24 24 52 Total
29 . 9 06 14 . 32 42 -10 . 33 15 . . 1.13 - - - Q3% - 30 20 50 - 31 20 48 Threequarters
19 . 6 04 09 . 21 27 -06 . 22 13 . . 1.15 - - - Q2% - 22 22 55 - 31 21 47 Halfway
10 . 4 02 04 . 11 13 -02 . 14 11 . . 1.40 - - - Q1% - 40 20 40 - xx xx xx Start

Q4 - H = 0 1 4, A = 0 2 2 . Q = 03pt . F03 A18 gd-15 . 1 cln-sht 6fts . 0.33pt/gm . 1 hm-gm run.
Q3 - H = 2 1 2, A = 1 1 3 . Q = 11pt . F11 A15 gd-04 . 3 cln-sht 2fts . 1.10pt/gm . 1 hm-gm run.
Q2 - H = 1 2 1, A = 1 0 4 . Q = 08pt . F10 A14 gd-04 . 0 cln-sht 2fts . 0.88pt/gm . 2 hm-gm run.
Q1 - H = 3 1 1, A = 1 1 3 . Q = 14pt . F11 A13 gd-02 . 3 cln-sht 3fts . 1.40pt/gm . 2 hm-gm run.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Q+ - H = 6 5 8, A = 3 4 12 . Q = 36pt F35 A60 gd-25 . 7 cln-sht 13fts 0.94pt/gm . 3 hm-gm best run.

17/18 Stats - 1st PL
Pl . W D L . .. F A . GD . Pt Po . pt/gm
38 . 9 13 16 . 34 54 -20 . 40 15 . . 1.05 - - - Q4% - 11 33 55 - 24 34 42 Final Total
29 . 8 10 11 . 28 38 -10 . 34 10 . . 1.17 - - - Q3% - 30 40 30 - 27 34 38 Threequarters
19 . 5 06 08 . 15 23 -08 . 21 12 . . 1.10 - - - Q2% - 22 33 44 - 26 31 42 Halfway
10 . 3 03 04 . 10 11 -01 . 12 12 . . 1.20 - - - Q1% - 30 30 40 - xx xx xx Start

Q4 - H = 1 2 1, A = 0 1 4 . Q = 06pt . F06 A16 gd-10 . 2 cln-sht 4fts . 0.66pt/gm . 3 hm-gm run.
Q3 - H = 3 1 1, A = 0 3 2 . Q = 13pt . F13 A15 gd-02 . 1 cln-sht 4fts . 1.30pt/gm . 3 hm-gm run.
Q2 - H = 1 3 1, A = 1 0 3 . Q = 09pt . F05 A12 gd-07 . 4 cln-sht 5fts . 1.00pt/gm . 2 hm-gm run.
Q1 - H = 2 2 1, A = 1 1 3 . Q = 12pt . F10 A11 gd-01 . 3 cln-sht 4fts . 1.20pt/gm . 4 hm-gm run.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Q+ - H = 7 8 4, A = 2 5 12 . Q = 40Pt F34 A54 gd-20 10 cln-sht 17fts 1.05pt/gm . 6 hm-gm best run.
* * * * *

QT - H = 45 46 42, A = 33 39 61 . Q = 319pt F317 A373 gd-56 67 cln-sht 81fts 1.19pt/gm . record @ 20/5/24.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

ANNUAL RESULTS

*** see main STATS tab at top for Prem season GOALS scored & conceded details.
And scroll further below to Prem PLAYERS goals & apps.

Falmer Years: SEASON14, 24/25 - 5th Premier League
P14 . W6 D5 L3 . F23 A20 GD3 . c-s = 3 . fts = 1
top six = 4pt, mid eight = 13pt, bottom six = 6pt . total = 23pt . Po5 - record @ 6/12/24

run in: Villa (H), Palace (A), Leicester (H), Brentford (A),
West Ham (H), Newcastle (H), Wolves (A), Liverpool (H), Spurs (A)

alphabetical RESULTS: Home & Away pairings @ 6/12/24 . . . see main STATS tab above for MONTHLY results.
Arsenal 1-1 (A) (H) = 1pt . Aston Villa . B'mouth W 1-2 (A) (H) = 3pt . Brentford
Chelsea L 4-2 (A) (H) = 0pt . C Palace . Everton 0-3 (A) (H) = 3pt . Fulham 3-1 (A) (H) = 0pt
Ipswich 0-0 (H) (A) = 1pt . Leicester . Liverpool 2-1 (A) (H) = 0pt.
Man City 2-1 (H) (A) = 3pt . Man Utd 2-1 (H) (A) = 3pt . Newcastle 0-1 (A) (H) = 3pt . N Forest 2-2 (H) (A) = 1pt
So'ton 1-1 (H) (A). Tott'ham 3-2 (H) (A) = 0pt . W Ham . Wolves 2-2 (H) (A) = 1pt
* * * * *

SEASON13, 23/24 - 7th Premier League
P38 . W12 D12 L14 . F55 A62 GD-07 . c-s = 6 . fts = 10 .
top six = 9pt, mid eight = 17pt, bottom six = 22pt . total = 48pt . Po11 - record @ 20/5/24.

run in: Liverpool 2-1 (A), Brentford 0-0 (A), Arsenal 0-3 (H), Burnley 1-1 (A),
Man City 0-4 (H), B'mouth 3-0 (A), Villa 1-0 (H), N'castle 1-1 (A), Chelsea 1-2 (H), Man Utd 0-2 (H)

alphabetical RESULTS; Home & Away pairings @ 20/5/24
Arsenal 2-0 (A) 0-3 (A) = 0pt . Aston Villa 1-0 (H) 6-1 (A) = 3pt .
B'mouth 3-0 (A) 3-1 (H) = 3pt . Brentford 0-0 (A) 2-1 (H) = 4pt . Burnley 1-1 (H) 1-1 (A) = 2pt
Chelsea 1-2 (H) 3-2 (A) = 0pt . Crystal P 4-1 (H) 1-1 (A) = 4pt . Everton 1-1 (A) 1-1 (H) = 2pt . Fulham 3-0 (A) 1-1 (H) = 1pt .
Luton 4-1 (H) 4-0 (A) = 3pt . Liverpool 2-1 (A) 2-2 (H) = 1pt . Man City 2-1 (A) 0-4 (H) = 0pt . Man Utd 1-3 (A) 0-2 (H) = 3pt .
Newcastle 3-1 (H) 1-1 (A) = 4pt . Nott'm Forest 1-0 (H) 2-3 (A) = 3pt . Sheff Utd 0-5 (A) 1-1 (H) = 4pt .
Spurs 4-2 (H) 2-1 (A) = 3pt . West Ham 0-0 (A) 1-3 (H) = 1pt . Wolves 1-4 (A) 0-0 (H) = 4pt

SEASON12, 22/23 - 6th Premier League
P38 . W18 D8 L12 . F72 A53 GD19 . c-s = 12 . fts = 5.
top six = 13pt, mid eight = 17pt, bottom six = 32pt = 62pt total . Po6 - record @ 28/5/23.

run in: 28 Spurs 2-1 (A), 29 Chelsea 1-2 (A), 30 Forest 3-1 (A), 31 Wolves 6-0 (H), 32 Man Utd 1-0 (H),
33 Everton 1-5 (H), 34 Arsenal 0-3 (A), 35 Newcastle 4-1 (A), 36 So'ton 3-1 (H), 37 Man City 1-1 (H), 38 Villa 2-1 (A).

alphabetical RESULTS; Home & Away pairings @ 28/5/23
Arsenal 2-4 (H) 0-3 (A) = 3pt . Aston Villa 1-2 (H) 2-1 (A) = 0pt . B'mouth 0-2 (A) 1-0 (H) = 6pt . Brentford 2-0 (A) 3-3 (H) = 1pt .
Chelsea 4-1 (H) 1-2 (A) = 6pt . Crystal P 1-0 (H) 1-1 (A) = 4pt . Everton 1-4 (A) 1-5 (H) = 3pt . Fulham 2-1 (A) 0-1 (H) = 0pt .
Leeds 1-0 (H) 2-2 (A) = 4pt . Leicester 5-2 (H) 2-2 (A) = 4pt . Liverpool 3-3 (A) 3-0 (H) = 4pt . Man City 3-1 (A) 1-1 (H) = 1pt .
Man Utd 1-2 (A) 1-0 (H) = 6pt . Newcastle 0-0 (H) 4-1 (A) = 1pt . Nott'm Forest 0-0 (H) 3-1 (A) = 1pt . So'ton 1-3 (A) 3-1 (H) = 6pt .
Spurs 0-1 (H) 2-1 (A) = 0pt . West Ham 0-2 (A) 4-0 (H) = 6pt . Wolves 2-3 (A) 6-0 (H) = 6pt

SEASON11, 21/22 - 5th Premier League
P38 . W12 D15 L11 . F42 A44 GD-02 . c-s = 11 . fts = 13.
top six 13pt, mid eight 22pt, bottom six 16pt = 51pt total . Po9 - record @ 22/5/22.

run in: 30 Norwich 0-0 (H), 31 Arsenal 1-2 (A), 32 Spurs 0-1 (A), 33 Man City 3-0 (A), 34 So'ton 2-2 (H),
35 Wolves 0-3 (A), 36 Man Utd 4-0 (H), 37 Leeds 1-1 (A), 38 West Ham 3-1 (H).

alphabetical RESULTS; Home & Away pairings @ 22/5/22
Arsenal 0-0 (H) 1-2 (A) = 4pt . Aston Villa 2-0 (A) 0-2 (H) = 0pt . Brentford 0-1 (A) 2-0 (H) = 6pt . Burnley 1-2 (A) 0-3 (H) = 3pt
Chelsea 1-1 (A) 1-1 (H) = 2pt . Crystal P 1-1 (A) 1-1 (H) = 2pt . Everton 0-2 (H) 2-3 (A) = 3pt . Leeds 0-0 (H) 1-1 (A) = 2pt
Leicester 2-1 (H) 1-1 (A) = 4pt . Liverpool 2-2 (A) 0-2 (H) = 1pt . Man City 1-4 (H) 3-0 (A) = 0pt . Man Utd 2-0 (A) 4-0 (H) = 3pt
Newcastle 1-1 (H) 2-1 (A) = 1pt . Norwich 0-0 (A) 0-0 (H) = 2pt . So'ton 1-1 (A) 2-2 (H) = 2pt . Spurs 0-2 (H) 0-1 (A) = 3pt
Watford 2-0 (H) 0-2 (A) = 6pt . West Ham 1-1 (A) 3-1 (H)= 4pt . Wolves 0-1 (H) 0-3 (A) = 3pt

SEASON10, 20/21 - 4th Premier League (started 14/9/20)
P38 . W9 D14 L15 . F40 A46 GD-6 . clean sheets = 12, fail to score = 11.
Versus top six = 15pt, mid eight = 17pt, bottom six = 9pt . total = 41pt . Po16 - record @ 23/5/21.

run in: 30 Man Utd 2-1 (A), 31 Everton 0-0 (H), 32 Chelsea 0-0 (A), 33 Sheff Utd 1-0 (A), 34 Leeds 2-0 (H),
35 Wolves 2-1 (A), 36 West Ham 1-1 (H), 37 Man City 3-2 (H), 38 Arsenal 2-0 (A).

alphabetical RESULTS; Home & Away pairings @ 23/5/21
Arsenal 0-1 (H) 2-0 (A) = 0pt . Aston Villa 1-2 (A) 0-0 (H) = 4pt . Burnley 0-0 (H) 1-1 (A) = 2pt . Chelsea 1-3 (H) 0-0 (A) = 1pt.
Crystal Palace 1-1 (A) 1-2 (H) = 1pt . Everton 4-2 (A) 0-0 (H) = 1pt . Fulham 0-0 (A) 0-0 (H) = 2pt . Leeds 0-1 (A) 2-0 (H) = 6pt.
Leicester 3-0 (A) 1-2 (H) = 0pt . Liverpool 1-1 (H) 0-1 (A) = 4pt . Man City 1-0 (A) 3-2 (H) = 3pt . Man Utd 2-3 (H) 2-1 (A) = 0pt.
Newcastle 0-3 (A) 3-0 (H) = 6pt . Sheff Utd 1-1 (H) 1-0 (A) = 1pt . Southampton 1-2 (H) 1-2 (A) = 3pt . Spurs 2-1 (A) 1-0 (H) = 3pt.
West Brom 1-1 (H) 1-0 (A) = 1pt . West Ham 2-2 (A) 1-1 (H) = 2pt . Wolves 3-3 (H) 2-1 (A) = 1pt.

*** see also: HISTORY & TRAVEL, via main Stats tab at top, for Prem previous encounters.
* * * * *

Knockouts:
EFL Cup: '24 Liverpool 2-3 (H) R4, Wolves 3-2 (H) R3 . Crawley 4-0 (H) R2
'23 Chelsea 1-0 (A) R3
'22 - Charlton 4pen3 0-0 (A) R4 . Arsenal 1-3 (A) R3 . Forest Green 0-3 (A) R2.
'21 - Leicester 4pen2 2-2 (A) R4 . Swansea 2-0 (H) R3 . Cardiff 0-2 (A) R2.
'20 - Man Utd 0-3 (H) R4 . Preston 0-2 (A) R3 . Portsmouth 4-0 (H) R2.

FA Cup: '25 Norwich (A) R3
'24 Wolves 1-0 (A) R5 . Sheff Utd 2-5 (A) R4 . Stoke 2-4 (A) R3
'23 Man Utd 6pen7 0-0 s-f . Grimsby 5-0 (H) q-f . Stoke 0-1 (A) R5 . Liverpool 2-1 (H) R4 . Middlesboro 1-5 (A) R3.
'22 - Spurs 3-1 (A) R4 . West Brom 1-2 aet (A) R3.
'21 - Leicester 1-0 (A) R5 . Blackpool 2-1 (H) R4 . Newport Co 3pen4 1-1 aet (A) R3.

Europa Lg: '24 Roma 1-0 (H) 4-0 (A) - last 16
Ajax 2-0 (H) 0-2 (A), Marseille (H) 2-2 (A), AEK Athens 2-3 (H) 0-1 (A) - group stage
P6 1 Brighton 13, 2 Marseille 11, 3 Ajax 5, 4 AEK 4

EFL Cup: 24 - R4 . 23 - R3 . 22 - R4 . 21 - R4 . 20 - R4 . 19 - R3 . 18 - R2 . 17 - R3.

FA Cup: 25 - R3 . 24 - R5 . 23 - s-f . 22 - R4 . 21 - R5 . 20 - R3 . 19 - s-f . 18 - q-f.

Europa Lg: '23 - gp, last 16

*** see also: all CUP Competitions, in long scroll below.
plus, via main Stats tab at top: all FALMER YEARS ties - shown F or L on full A-Z club list.
Cup apps & goals scored are noted in SQUADS 7-9 & 10-12 below.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

PL & PL2 signings '20 to '24

Falmer Years: 2020 to 2024 (seasons 10-14) Premier League (4th to 8th terms) & U23/21.

in 24 - Ferdi KADIOGLU - (Prem 24)
Eighth summer signing prior to deadline for 24yo left-back from Fenerbahce at 25m. Dutch-born (Arnhem '99) defender got a deal to '28. Has caps for Turkey including Euro 24. Sept Prem debut.
in 24 - Matt O'RILEY - (Prem 33)
late August window transfer at 30m from Celtic for goal-scoring midfielder. Signed to '29 for the 23yo Danish international. Born London. Has England U21 apps. Injured on debut.
in 24 - Georginio RUTTER - (Prem 14)
record 40m signing from Leeds in first week of the 24/25 campaign. 22yo French forward got a deal to '29. Born '02 Piescop. Has France U21 apps and also played in Germany at Hoffenheim. Early Prem debut.
in 24 - Brajan GRUDA - (Prem 8)
Signed two days prior to opening day '24 for 25m from Mainz. Born Speyer Germany '04. A deal to '28 for attacking midfielder with Germany U21 apps. At 20yo is another young player set to fulfil potential. Rehab from injury.
in 24 - Malick Yalcouye - OOL (Prem 40)
summer window transfer from Gothenburg at 6m for Mali-born 18yo midfielder on a deal to '29. Born Bandiagara '05. Potential to develop into a top player. On loan at Sturm Graz.
in 24 - Amario Cozier-Duberry - OOL (Prem)
19yo winger with a deal to '28 after leaving Arsenal. Was at Gunners academy from '19 to '24. Born London '05. Future Prem prospect. On loan at Blackburn.
in 24 - Mats WIEFFER - (Prem 27)
24yo midfielder from Feyenoord for 25m in July '24 with deal to '29. Born Bome NL '99. Eredivisie, Champions League & Netherlands squad experience. Straight into 1st team. Injured on debut.
in 24 - Yankuba MINTEH - (Prem 17)
Signed early in summer window from Newcastle for 30m. A 5yr deal to '29 for the Gambia-born 19yo winger (Bakoteh '04). Was on loan at Feyenoord last term and scored goals. Has international caps and experience in European competitions. Straight into 1st team.
in 24 - Ibrahim Osman - OOL (Prem)
Agreement in Feb to sign 19yo Ghanain winger in summer for 16m. A player at Nordsjalland in Denmark got a deal to '29. Went on loan to Feyenoord in Aug '24.
* * * * *
in 24 - Caylan Vickers - (U21s 56)
Young striker got a deal to '27. 19yo signed from Reading and has L1 squad experience.
in 24 - Josh Robertson - (U21s)
signed at Jan window to '27. 18yo came thru Sunderland academy and developed as a midfielder.
in 24 - Kamari Doyle - OOL (U21s)
18yo transferred from Southampton and came through their youth set up. Joined Albion in Jan '24 window. Midfield prospect. Went to Exeter on loan in Aug '24.
in 24 - Steven Hall - (61 U21s)
Jan window deal for 19yo Australian keeper. Signed from Adelaide until '27. Has U23 caps. Joined BHA U21 squad at Lancing.
in 24 - Valentin BARCO - OOL (Prem 19)
Jan window signing of 19yo (born Veinticinco '04) Argentine left-sided flank/mf player from Boca Juniors for 8m to '28. Came thru their academy and has U23 caps to boot. In Prem squad. Borrowed by Sevilla Aug '24.
* * * * *
in 23 - Adrian Mazilu - (U21s)
Agreement to sign 17yo winger at Jan '24 window. Played for Farul Constanta in meantime. Has Romania U15-21 apps. At Euro U21 championships in July '23. Joined Arnhem on loan in Jan '24. In PL2 squad.
in 23 - Louis Flower - (55 U21s)
Young striker got a deal at BHA after coming thru Chelsea academy. Joined development group for revised PL2 season format.
in 23 - Carlos BALEBA - (Prem 20)
Late Aug signing for 23m from Lille on a 5yr contract to '28. Young 19yo Cameroonian (born Douala '04) had limited first team apps having made debut only 1yr ago. Given time to get up to speed but got regular Prem apps.
in 23 - Noel Atom - (U21s)
Youngster arrived from RB Leipzig academy on a 3yr deal to '26. Plays centre back and has added stature to the group.
in 23 - Jacob Slater - (53 U21s)
Came thru academy at Preston and joined Albion in pre-season. Got a 3yr deal. Young left back with potential to progress in development group.
in 23 - Igor JULIO - (Prem 3)
25yo Brazilian (born Bom Sucesso '98) left-sided cent-def on a 4yr deal to '27 for 14m from Fiorentina. Been in Europe since '16 with Austrian clubs and then Italian outfits. Has a place on BHA left flank now. Injured and reduced apps.
in 23 - Bart VERBRUGGEN - (Prem 1)
20yo handler (born '02 Breda) from Andelecht in July '23 for 16m+ and change. Got a 5yr deal to '28. Has Netherlands U21 caps. Tall and athletic with good feet too. Fast track to Prem squad. Shared apps with Steele. Became no.1
in 23 - James MILNER - (Prem 6)
Arrived at Lancing on a 1yr deal to June '24 after an 8yr career at Liverpool. Got a drawer full of medals, awards and sports pages cuttings. 37yo (born '86 Leeds) with vast experience in all top competitions at home & abroad. Ex-Eng international. Over 600 PL apps. Senior pro who can help squad develop at higher level. Proved an asset. Niggling injuries. Limited apps.
in 23 - Joao PEDRO - (Prem 9)
30m 5yr deal agreed in May for 21yo (born '01 Ribeirao Preto) Brazilian striker at Watford. Signed to '28 so bolsters young Seagulls squad in process of evolution. Has Prem & C'ship experience since 2020. Previously at Fluminense after coming thru their development group to reach A team in 2019. Scores goals and an exciting prospect for immediate future. Leading scorer and living the dream. Injured but Prem regular.
in 23 - Joe Belmont - (U18s)
Welsh lad who plays up front joined from Liverpool in July '23.
in 23 - Yasin AYARI - (Prem 26)
Jan signing for 3.5m to '27 on a 4.5yr contract, young (born '03 Soina) Swedish midfielder from AIK. Got first full app for Sweden in '23 as a 19yo. Prem fringe '23. On loan at Coventry & Blackburn. Prem breakthru '24.
in 23 - Mark O'Mahoney - OOL (51 U21s)
Jan window import of RoI U19 striker from Cork (born Carrigaline '05). Signed after a trial until '25 and swaps green for blue at Lancing. Got the Sussex Downs as a backdrop now. Made it to Prem squad fringes. On loan at Portsmouth Aug '24.
in 23 - Jamie Mullins - (50 U21s)
Gotten in early in the Jan window from Bohemians in Ireland. 18yo midfielder signed to '25 for progress thru U21 group. Yet another RoI prospect on BHA books.
in 23 - Facundo BUONANOTTE - OOL (Prem)
First January signing on 5.3m deal to '26, struck from previous Nov, to bolster first-team group. Young (born '04 Perez) midfielder came thru Rosario academy and has U20 caps for Argentine. Made pro debut for S American club & BHA in Feb. Future prospect fast-track developed into full Prem player '23. Improving young attacking midfielder. Went to Leicester on loan Aug '24.
* * * * *
in 22 - Pervis ESTUPINAN - (Prem 30)
Arrived during Aug '22 transfer window from Villarreal for 18m on a 5yr deal to '27. 24yo (born '98 Esmeraidas) has a Europa League winners cert, Champions League experience and multiple international apps for Ecuador. Did several seasons on loan in Spain after signing for Watford in 2016. 74 apps for Villarreal since 2020. On left side to play a big part in Prem campaign '23. At World Cup '22. Injured but came back strongly.
in 22 - Luca Barrington - OOL (U21s)
17yo gotten in from Man City after coming thru youth ranks up north. U18 PL winner, 22 apps 10 gls from m-f. Plays out wide but this is flexible at Lancing under Academy coaches for 3yr deal. On loan at Grimsby Aug '24.
in 22 - Imari Samuels - (Prem 47)
Signed from Reading in Aug. 19yo left back but versatile on each flank up & down. England apps to U20 level. Talented prospect. Prem fringes '23. Went out on loan. In PL squad '24.
in 22 - Simon ADINGRA - (Prem 11)
close season 8m signing on a 4yr deal to '26 for 20yo (born '02 Yamoussoukro) Ivory Coast striker. Came thru Ghana academy system and played in Danish league from Jan '20. Scores goals and flexible on flanks. First team squad prospect. On loan at RUSG in Belgium '23. Prem squad Aug '23. Got regular apps until injured. At Afcon Jan '24 - winners medal. Prem regular.
in 22 - Julio ENCISO - (Prem 10)
Reportedly up to 11m+ wad in June '22 for young (born '04 Caaguazu) Paraguay international striker on 4yr contract to '26. 18yo played for Libertad Asuncion, got 14 apps 11 goals in previous season. Huge prospect for Spanish speakers to adopt at Lancing. Prem breakthru '23. Long term injury into '24.
in 22 - Benicio Baker-Boaitey - OOL (Prem)
18yo winger borrowed from Porto joined U23 league group with prospect for a permanent move in July '22. London lad with youth time at West Ham prior to 2020. Progress in PL2. Signed up to '24. On Prem bench. Borrowed by Port Vale in Aug '24.
in 22 - Killian Cahill - (Prem 38)
Young prospect joins Albion keepers (born '03). 18yo signed in Jan '22 from Shamrock Rovers. Ball playing custodian with hands on ability too. Ambition to reach the Prem via respected BHA academy pathway. In PL squad July '24.
in 22 - Kain Ryan - (U21)
English youngster hoping to make it as a defender against all comers.
in 22 - James Beadle - OOL (U21)
Joined wider goalkeeping academy group and part of latest intake to develop handlers to competitive PL2 level. England U18 squad. Sussex Senior Cup winner '22. On loan at Crewe Jan '23, Oxford Jun '23 & Sheff Wed Jan '24 & July '24.
* * * * *
in 21 - Abdullah Sima - OOL (Prem 31)
Striker from Senegal signed for 8m out of Prague on deadline Aug '21 for 4yrs to '25. Played in France & Czech lgs. Tall 20yo (born '01 Dakar) with potential to adapt to EFL & Prem. Went straight out to Stoke on loan. Injured and rehab at BHA Jan '22. Joined Angers on loan July '22 & Rangers Jun '23. Got goals there. In PL squad July '24. Borrowed by Brest for season.
in 21 - Kaoru MITOMA - (Prem 22)
24yo from Japan (born '97 Kanagawa) signed for 3m on 4yr deal to '25 after being in home squad for Olympics during Aug '21. U23 caps and Japan Super Cup winner. Scored goals in top div apps at a 2:1 ratio. Went over to RU S-G in Belgium for transition season. WC quals scoring sub. Prospects depended on further progress. Joined Prem 1st 11 squad in July '22. At World Cup '22. Prem regular. Injured. At Asia Cup Jan '24. Back injury in Prem cut short season.
in 21 - Kjell SCHERPEN - OOL (Prem)
Giant goalkeeper gotten in for 5m from Ajax on 3yr deal to '24. Dutch U21 caps for the 21yo (born y2k Emmen), plus some senior experience at club level. Expected to be back up to first squad custodians. Injury probs. FA Cup debut only. Borrowed by Oostende from Jan '22. Then Arnhem from Aug '22 & Sturm Graz in Jun '23 & July '24.
in 21 - Jeremy SARMIENTO - OOL (Prem 16)
July signing of 19yo (born '02 Madrid) ex-Charlton and England U17 youngster from Benfica on a 2yr deal. Family is from Equador. Pathway already planned for this attacking player. EFL Cup sub. In Equador squad. Sub & starting debuts in PL Nov/Dec '21. Sustained hamstring injury, so rehab . Signed up again to '27. Young PoY '22. At World Cup '22. Limited Prem apps '23. On loan West Brom & Ipswich 23/24. In PL squad July '24. Borrowed by Burnley Aug '24.
in 21 - Ruairi McConville - (U21 44)
Northern Irish lad plays in c-d and after trialing with BHA was gotten as a 16yo from Linfield. Progress in PL2 and other comps.
in 21 - Hugo Fisher - (U21s 62)
Homebred youngster and another member of keepers union at Lancing coming thru ranks.
in 21 - Evan FERGUSON - (Prem 28)
Irish youngster (born '04 Bettystown) from Bohemians got in at January window and added to forwards in development group. Ireland U21. EFL Cup sub & Trophy apps. On Prem bench during covid crisis. FA Cup sub debut. In PL squad & starting debut and youngest goal scorer '23. Big future. Signed to '28. Lost form and injured.
in 21 - Josh Duffus - (U21 52)
forward: part of U18 intake for '21. Been at Albion since '17. English youngster from Lambeth with designs to push on and hit the ground running. Dob 31 May '05. Eng U17s.
in 21 - Jack HINSHELWOOD - (Prem 41)
part of U18 intake for '21. From the next generation of a local footy family with blue & white running thru their dna. Son of ex-Albion cent-def Adam. Hopefully will kick on and do 'em all proud. dob 11 Apr '05 England. Prem debut in '23. Proven to be a natural for the Prem.
* * * * *
in 20 - Danny WELBECK - (Prem 18)
Vastly experienced forward obtained in Oct '20 via a free on a 1yr deal. Been around the block awhile for England, Man Utd and Arsenal. 29yo (born '90 Manchester) expected to score goals well into his thirties. Took up an extra year option. Injury problems. Pukka Prem talent. Signed to '24. Prem regular.
in 20 - Jakub MODER - (Prem 15)
Midfielder with caps for Poland up to senior squad got a 5yr contract to '25 on final international transfer day for 11m. 21yo (born '99 Szczecinek) stayed with Lech Poznan until end of '20. Progress via Europa League. Recalled to BHA for '21 and later put into 1st team. Poland squad for Euros & WC quals. Prem squad regular until acl injury. Out for all of 22-23, returned for '24.
in 20 - Joel VELTMAN - (Prem 34)
Moved from Ajax, for just shy of 1m, where he'd been since an academy scholar (born '92 IJmuiden). Dutch international with experience in Europe club competitions. Plays on right side of defence and can also score odd goals. Prem regular and clearly a bargain for value. In Netherlands Euros squad '22. PL squad mainstay. Signed to '25. Veteran now.
in 20 - Casper Nilsson - OOL (U21s)
Young defender from Sweden was one of several scouted from abroad in academy's new intake. Played at Malmo previously. U17 Cup winner. Sweden U21 squad for Euros in '23. Went to Partick on loan in Aug '24.
in 20 - Samy Chouchane - OOL (U21)
Kid from Tunisia who crossed the Channel via Boulogne in a bid to improve midfield skills at the BHA training centre. U17 Cup winner '21. SS Cup final on bench '22. Tunisia U20 squad '23. Prem squad fringes. Borrowed by Northampton Aug '24.
in 20 - Cameron Peupion - (Prem 32)
Australian youngster came from Sydney onto fields of England to work on midfield abilities (born '02). U17 Cup winner '21. Sussex Senior Cup winner '22. Aussie U21 squad '23. On PL bench 'May 23. ool Cheltenham Sept '23 but recalled. Prem squad fringes. In PL squad Aug '24.
in 20 - Andy MORAN - OOL (Prem 36)
Scouted in Ireland at Bray and joins fellow countrymen in development group as a midfielder. U17 Cup winner. Ireland U21. EFL Cup sub & Trophy apps. Likely Prem prospect. Sussex Senior Cup winner '22. On PL bench May '23. ool Blackburn Aug '23. In PL squad. Borrowed by Stoke Aug '24.
in 20 - Ben Jackson - OOL (U21)
Homegrown kid got to Albion academy via Watford. Called up as a defender with potential to progress. U17 Cup winner '21. Sussex Senior Cup winner '22. Progress in PL2 and other comps. On loan to Livingstone July '24.

PL & PL2 signings '17 to '20

Falmer Years: 2017 to 2020 (seasons 7-9) Premier League (1st to 3rd terms) & PL2 (U21).
in 20 - Jan Paul van HECKE - (Prem 29)
Dutch defender signed from Breda for 1.5m on 3yr deal prior to new season. 20yo (born y2k Arnemuiden) originally went out to play in Europe as part of development. Borrowed by Blackburn in Aug '21. Good rerports - PoY. Joined Prem 1st 11 squad in July '22. On Prem bench. Dutch U21 squad '23. Signed unspecified deal to beyond '24.
in 20 - Tariq LAMPTEY - (Prem 2)
19yo (born y2k Hillingdon) arrived via Chelsea U23s for 1m at Jan window, getting a 3.5yr deal. Right sided back or m-f with England U19 credentials. Came thru Blues academy ranks from a very young age. Huge Prem potential. U21 call up. Sustained long term injury and had surgery. out 9 months to Sept '21. Prem regular '22. Joined Ghana national squad in July '22. At World Cup '22. More injuries. On Prem bench '23. Signed to '25.
in 20 - Marcus Ifill - (U21s 46)
Bought in from Swindon at January window to join development group. Plays in midfield. BHA U17 Cup winner '21. Sussex Senior Cup winner '22.
* * * * *
in 19 - Adam WEBSTER - (Prem 4)
Record breaking huge money transfer (20m+/4yr deal) from Bristol City, for defender with Championship experience. 24yo came from Sussex (born '95 Chichester) and returned on a path via Portsmouth & Ipswich. Injured ankle & hamstring etc reduced total apps over Prem terms. Signed to '26.
in 19 - Ed Turns - (Prem 48)
Homegrown kid with Welsh roots moved through academy up to U18s. Gained experience with wider U21 group as c-d. Burst onto pro scene with EFL Cup R3 app in Sept '21. Player with prospects. On PL bench in covid crisis. In 1st 11 squad '22. On loan at Orient Jan '23 thru '24. Welsh U21 squad. Signed to '25.
in 19 - Carl Rushworth - OOL (Prem 39)
Keeper: joined in Jan from Halifax (born '01). Had been at Huddersfield as a kid. 19yo shot stopper went on loan to Worthing until April '20 when lower leagues stopped by Covid-19. Signed a 3yr contract for U23s in July as squad keeper. Young PoY '21. Borrowed by Walsall and their young PoY '22. Next on loan to Lincoln. England U21 Euros squad '23. Borrowed by Swansea Aug '23. In PL squad Jul '24. On loan at Hull Aug '24.
in 19 - Odel Offiah - OOL (Prem 49)
English lad selected for academy as a defender and came thru ranks (born Camden '02). U17 Cup winner. EFL Cup sub. FA Cup debut. Signed to '24 plus 1yr option. PL fringes of squad on bench '23. On loan at Hearts '23. In PL squad July '24. Borrowed by Blackpool Aug '24.
* * * * *
in 18 - Jason STEELE - (Prem 23)
Keeper: signed for free to be a homegrown part of 25 man PL squad in summer of '18 (born '90 Newton Aycliffe). Experience with Sunderland, Blackburn & Middlesbro. Injury minimised any apps. 2nd choice gloves from bench. EFL Cup capt and FAC apps. Stepped up to Prem standard in '23. Signed to '25.
in 17 - Tom McGill - OOL (Prem)
Keeper: Came thru academy ranks from '14 (born y2k Belleville, Ontario) to represent England squads between posts at youth levels up to U19. Progressed to U23 group but went on loan in county leagues at Worthing, Greenwich & Basingstoke from '18. Got extended deal to '21. Borrowed by Crawley Town for '20 season - recalled in pandemic. Well thought of to progress. EFL Cup bench. On fringes of Prem squad '22. Qualified for Canada squad (by birth) in '23. Signed to '25. on loan at MK Dons in '24.
in 12 - Solly MARCH - (Prem 7)
Sussex lad who came thru Albion's youth & development squads via non-league for 5k at Lewes (born '94 Eastbourne). Flying winger who initially was added to the 12/13 match-day Championship squad and went on thru 4 terms to figure in the Prem. Converted to wingback. Asset to any first team formations. Sustained long injury. Then 1st 11 regular and much improved by '23. Signed to '26. Another long-term injury 23/24.
in 09 - Lewis DUNK - (Prem 5) Capt.
Brighton boy (born '91) and product of BHA's Academy prior to the Amex & Lancing training centre. First became part of 1st team squad at Withdean in 9/10 and brought forward during Gus Poyet's lower league revolution. Regular Championship apps for promo chasing seasons. Top 5 Prem League cent def who also gained England squad call up in '18 & '23. Seagulls captain's armband to boot. PoY in '20, signed 5yr deal. Top Prem pro. 200+ PL, 400+ career apps. Signed to '26. England call up Sept '23 & Jun '24.
* * * * * * * * * *

Players apps & goals

2017 to 2025 Prem seasons 7-14 (1st to 8th terms) appearances & league goals.

PL APPS from '17 to '25 . Prem 24/25 current squad league starts + playing sub . record @ 6/12/24.
1 Verbruggen (gk) - < - 21 12 . 2 Lamptey - - 7+1 11 16+14 3+17 10+9 1+2 . 3 Julio - < - 17+7 7+2 . 4 Webster - - 31 29 16+6 23+4 13+2 2+1 .
5 Dunk 38 36 35 33 29 36 33 9+1 . 6 Milner - < - 11+4 3 . 7 March 18+18 30+5 11+8 19+2 17+14 31+2 7 0 .
8 Gruda - < - 0+5 . 9 Pedro - < - 19+12 6+2 . 10 Enciso - < - 7+13 5+7 0+7 . 11 Adingra - < - 25+6 3+7 . 12 - < - .
13 - < - . 14 Rutter - < - 10+3 . 15 Moder - - - 7+5 19+9 0 6+11 0+2 . 16 (Sarmiento) - < - 1+4 1+8 0+1 . 17 Minteh - < - 5+4 .
18 Welbeck - - - 17+7 14+11 21+10 21+8 13 . 19 (Barco) - < - 3+3 0 . 20 Baleba - < - 15+12 9+2 . 21 - < - . 22 Mitoma - < - 24+9 15+4 13+1 .
23 Steele (gk) - 0 0 0 1 15 17 2 . 24 Kadioglu - < - 5+1 . 25 - < - . 26 Ayari - < - 1+2 7+4 . 27 Wieffer - < - 3+7 .
28 Ferguson - - - - 0+1 10+9 15+11 1+8 . 29 van Hecke - < - 3+5 26+2 11+1 . 30 Estupinan - < - 31+4 15+4 8+3 .
31 (Sima) - < - 0 0 0 . 32 Peupion - < - 0+1 0 . 33 O'Riley - < - 2+2 . 34 Veltman - - - 26+3 33+1 25+6 17+10 11 . 35 - < - .
36 (Moran) - < - 0+1 0 . 37 - < - . 38 Cahill (gk) - < - 0 . 39 Rushworth (gk) - < - 0 . 40 (Yalcouye) - < - 0 . 41 Hinshelwood - < - 0+1 8+4 10 . 42 - < - .
43 - < - . 44 McConville - < - 0 . 45 - < -. 46 - < - . 47 Samuels - < - 0 0 0 . 48 Turns - < - 0 0 . 49 (Offiah) - - - - 0+2 1+3 0 . 51 (O'Mahony) - < - 1+2 0
ool: Scherpen (gk) - < - 0 0 0 . McGill (gk) - < - 0 0 . Buonanotte - < - 6+7 17+10 0 . Baker-Boaitey - < - 0+5 0 . Duberry - < - 0 . Osman - < - 0

PL GOALS from '17 to '24 . Per Prem 24/25 scoring player . record @ 6/12/24.
Dunk 1 2 3 5 1 1 3 0 . March 1 1 0 2 0 7 3 0 . Webster - - 3 1 2 0 0 0 . Lamptey - - - 1 0 0 0 0 .
Welbeck - - - 6 6 6 5 6 . (Sarmiento) - - - - 0 0 0 0 . Veltman - - - 1 1 1 1 0 . Moder - - - 0 0 0 0 0 .
van Hecke - < - 0 0 0 0 . Mitoma - < - 7 3 3 . Enciso - < - 4 0 0 . Ferguson - < - 0 6 6 1 . Milner - < - 0 0 . Barco - < - 0 0 .
Estupinan - < - 1 2 0 . (Buonanotte) - < - 1 3 0 . Ayari - < - 0 0 0 . Pedro - < - 9 4 . Adingra - < - 0 6 1 . Julio - < - 0 0 .
Hinshelwood - < - 0 3 1 . (Moran) - < - 0 0 0 . (Offiah) - < - 0 0 0 . Peupion - < - 0 0 . Boaitey - < - 0 0 . O'Mahony - < - 0 0 .
(Sima) - < - 0 0 0 . Baleba - < - 0 2 . Minteh - < - 1 . Wieffer - < - 0 . O'Riley - < - 1 . Rutter - < - 2 . Kadioglu - < - 1 . Gruda - < - 0 .
(Yalcouye) - < - 0 . (Duberry) - < - 0 . (Osman) - < - 0 . Samuels - < - 0 0 0 . Turns - < - 0 0

PL APPS/GL scored '17 to '24 . (no goals) . Prem 24/25 appearances per goal . record @ 6/12/24.
Dunk 38 18 11.6 6.6 29 36 11.0 (10) . March 18 17.5 (19) 10.5 (31) 4.5 2.5 0 . Webster - - 10.3 29 11 (27) (15) (3) . Lamptey - - (8) 11 (30) (20) (19) (3) .
Welbeck - - - 4 4.1 5.1 5.8 2.1 . (Sarmiento) - - - - (5) (9) 0 (1) . Veltman - - - 28 34 31 27 (11) . Moder - - - (14) (28) 0 (17) (2) .
van Hecke - < - 0 (8) (28) (12) . Mitoma - < - 4.7 6.3 4.6 . Enciso - < - 5.0 (12) (7) . Ferguson - < - (1) 3.1 4.5 9.0 . Milner - < - (15) (3) . Barco - < - (6) 0 .
Estupinan - < - 35 9.5 (11) . (Buonanotte) - < - 13 9.0 . Ayari - < - (3) 0 (11) . Pedro - < - 3.3 2.0 . Adingra - < - 0 5.1 10.0 . Julio - < - (24) (9) .
Hinshelwood - < - (1) 4.0 10.0 . (Moran) - < - (1) 0 . (Offiah) - < - (2) (4) 0 . Peupion - < - (1) 0 . Boaitey - < - (5) . O'Mahony - < - (3) 0 .
(Sima) - < - 0 0 0 . Baleba - < - 0 5.5 . Minteh - < - 9 . Wieffer - < - (10) . O'Riley - < - 4 . Rutter - < - 6.5 . Kadioglu - < - 6.0 . Gruda - < - (5)
(Yalcouye) - < - 0 . (Duberry) - < - 0 . (Osman) - < - 0 . Samuels - < - 0 0 0 . Turns - < - 0 0 .

TOTAL PL apps/goals '17 to '24 . Prem 24/25 record @ 6/12/24.
Dunk 251/16 = 15.6, March 182/14 = 13.0, Webster 127/6 = 21.1, Welbeck 122/29 = 4.2, Veltman 131/4 = 32.7, Lamptey 91/1,
Mitoma 66/13 = 5.0, Enciso 39/4 = 9.7, Ferguson 55/13 = 4.2, Pedro 39/13 = 3.0, Adingra 41/7 = 5.8,
Estupinan 65/3 = 21.6, (Buonanotte) 40/4 = 10.0, (Sarmiento) 15/0, Moder 59/0, van Hecke 48/0, Julio 33/0, Milner 18/0, (Barco) 6/0,
Hinshelwood 23/4 = 5.7, Ayari 14/0, (Moran) 1/0, (Offiah) 6/0, Peupion 1/0, Boaitey 5/0, O'Mahony 3/0
(Sima) 0/0, Baleba 38/2 = 19.0, Minteh 9/1, Wieffer 10/0, O'Riley 4/1, Rutter 13/2 = 6.5, Kadioglu 6/1, Gruda 5/0,
(Yalcouye) 0/0, (Duberry) 0/0, (Osman) 0/0, Samuels 0/0, Turns 0/0

see also: current SQUAD numbers & seasons notes via main STATS tab above.

Prem squads in seasons 10-12 and signings (INS) are below.
Prem squads in seasons 7-9 and previous signings (ins) are below.

Roberto de Zerbi, Graham Potter, Chris Hughton, coaches and goalkeepers updated notes are in scroll below.
Past Prem & U18/21 players (OUTS) are in long scroll below.
Past players apps/goals records are further below.
* * * * *

Potter & De Zerbi

Falmer Years: 2019 to 2024 Premier League, Seasons 9-13.

Graham Potter: seasons 9-12
Taking flight with Seagulls after nesting Swans
Not many fans were aware of the young manager over in Wales at Swansea but Tony Bloom persuaded him to join Albion and coach at the highest level. Potter's cv included managing in Sweden where he had been very successful with small outfit Ostersund - even taking them to the Europa League. GP's playing days in the EFL were as a full back, for numerous clubs, including Southampton, Stoke and West Brom. He also has a degree in social sciences and a masters in leadership skills. The 44yo came to Albion having worked with a young squad in Wales and proved capable of developing talent from the academy. BHA paid Swansea around 3m compensation to acquire services of their new boss/head coach, who brought his respected coaching team on board too.
Graham Potter signed a 4yr contract which was soon increased to 6yr from Nov '19 to June '25. In mid March '20 with Potter struggling to obtain enough wins to ensure Seagulls survival in the Prem the league was suspended due to the Covid-19 health pandemic. He voluntarily took a substantial pay cut from April. The season restarted on 17 June and finished 26 July. GP reached last term's survival points total with 5 games to go. He achieved PL safety in the penultimate match but ultimately it was another bottom six finale. The following campaign GP again steered BHA to survival, with three games to go, although merely reaching another minimum points total. In the close season of '21 Graham Potter was regularly linked with a move to the long vacant Spurs position. He reached 100 BHA games in total during Nov '21 and a century of Prem fixtures in Feb '22. GP surpassed previous points tallies at end of April. And got Albion into the top ten to boot. In Sept '22 of the following season Chelsea approached Potter to take over their vacant head coach role. The decison was made in less than 12 hours. Albion reportedly banked 21m by way of compensation. But in April '23 Potter was sacked by Chelsea after only seven months as head coach, with Blues languishing in 11th place.

Roberto de Zerbi: seasons 12-13
Brighton & Hove Albion had identified their new head coach from a short-list of candidates and quickly appointed De Zerbi as replacement for outgoing Graham Potter. RdZ was said to be in the mould of the type of coach that the Albion wanted for more progress.
A 4yr contract was granted for the 43yo Italian, who at best played in midfield for Napoli. Top coaching experience was at Italian outfit Sassuolo and finally Shakhtar Donetsk in Ukraine. He was a free agent during start of 22/23 seasons in Europe. De Zerbi joined Albion in late September '22 at the pause for top European divisions during the Nations League group games.
De Zerbi had been a Serie A coach since 2016 at Palermo, having come thru ranks of clubs in lower divisions for a few seasons. A short spell at Benevento took him on to Sassuolo from 2018 until 2021. Relative success there included two consecutive 8th places. At Shakhtar De Zerbi took the club in Champions League group stages and also won the Ukrainian Super Cup. War in the country cut short his stay there and he returned to Italy. His command of English was limited but likely to improve in our multi-cultural climate. Six of his support staff also arrived at Lancing. Assistant head coach was Enrico Venturelli, asst Andrea Maldera, athletic coaches are Agostino Tibaudi, Vincenzo Teresa & Marcattilio Marcattilil. New head gk coach was Ricard Segarra.
In Feb '23 De Zerbi was red carded at the Amex after close of play and subsequently faced FA punishment. This amounted to a one match ban plus a 15k fine. In March he was again sat in the stands following an accumulation of yellow cards. In April RdZ received another red card. In May '23 De Zerbi steered Albion to qualify for the Europa League by finishing in the top six. In Nov '23 RdZ was warned about conduct when making comments concerning Refs - 80% of which he disliked! The good news was Brighton & Hove Council had awarded Albion freedom of the city. By his own high standards the Italian was disappointed in May '24 by an average mid div finish. He left the club immediately after the final fixture. Conjecture intimated his ambitions were greater than what the club was able to meet. He agreed to join Marseille in July '24 - a club we'd played in Europa League group B games... well, well, well. Criticised BHA ownership just prior to the big kickoff Aug '24.
Prem P70 . W = 26 . D = 19 . L = 25 . W = 37.1%
* * * * *

Prem Squads 10-12

Falmer Years: 2020 - 2023 (seasons 10-12) Premier League (4th - 6th terms) & PL2 (U23/21) group.

Year12 SQUAD: 2022-23 - sixth PL season ~ 6th . record @ 28/5/23
Head coach: Roberto de Zerbi . 1st team coach: Andrew Crofts.
APPS: 1 Sanchez 23, 2 Lamptey 3+17, 3 -, 4 Webster 23+4, 5 Dunk 36, 6 Colwill 13+4, 7 March 31+2, 8 {Mwepu} 2+4, 9 -,
10 Mac Allister 31+4, 11 {Trossard} 16, 12 -, 13 Gross 37, 14 Lallana 12+4, 15 Moder 0, 18 Welbeck 21+10,
19 Sarmiento 1+8, 20 Enciso 7+13, 21 Undav 6+16, 22 Mitoma 24+9, 23 Steele (gk) 15, 24 -, 25 Caicedo 34+3, 26 Ayari 1+2,
27 Gilmour 7+7, 28 Ferguson 10+9, 29 van Hecke 3+5, 30 Estupinan 31+4, 31 -, 32 -, 33 -, 34 Veltman 25+6,
35 -, 36 -, 37 -, 38 McGill (gk) 0, 40 Buonanotte 6+7, 42 Offiah 0+2, 49 Moran 0+1, 51 Peupion 0+1, 66 Samuels 0, 71 Hinshelwood 0+1
OOL: 16 (Scherpen) (gk), 17 (Alzate), 41 (Spong), 43 (Turns), 44 (Tolaj), 46 (Tsoungui), 47 (Furlong),
Khadra, Zeqiri, Jenks, Roberts, Richards, Weir, Karbownik, Sima, Connolly, Kozlowski.

ban: (Mac Allister, Caicedo)
injured: March Lallana Sarmiento Lamptey (Webster Veltman Ferguson Colwill Gilmour Estupinan Welbeck Mitoma)
rehab: (Moder) . retired: Mwepu (U9s coach).

Sanchez . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 --- --- --- --- ---- ---- 29 ---- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ---- ----
Steele. . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ---- ---- ---- 23 24 25 26 27 28 --- 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Lamptey . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 -- 10 11 12 --- 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 --- --- --- --- ---- ---- ---- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ----
Webster .. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 --- --- --- ---- 18 --- 20 21 22 23 24 25 ---- 27 28 29 ---- 31 32 33 ---- --- --- --- 38
Dunk .. .. . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 --- ---
Colwill . .. 1 -- -- 4 - -- -- -- -- --- --- --- ---- 14 15 16 17 18 --- --- --- ---- ---- ---- 25 26 --- 28 --- 30 --- 32 33 34 ---- 36 37 38
March .. .. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 --- --- --- ---- ----
Mwepu . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 -- -- -- --- retired
M Allister. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 --- --- 17 18 19 ---- 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Trossard . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 --- --- --- left
Gross . . .. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 --- 33 34 35 36 37 38
Lallana . . 1 2 3 -- -- -- 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ---- ---- ---- --- --- --- --- --- --- ----
Welbeck . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 ---- 13 14 --- --- --- 18 19 20 ---- ---- 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 ---
Enciso . . -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --- 12 ---- 14 ---- 16 17 --- --- 20 ---- ---- 23 --- 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Undav . . . 1 -- -- -- 5 6 -- -- 9 10 11 -- 13 14 --- --- --- --- ---- 20 21 22 ---- --- ---- 26 27 ---- ---- 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Mitoma . . - 2 3 4 5 -- 7 8 9 -- -- --- 12 13 --- 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Caicedo .. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 --- 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Gilmour . -- -- -- -- -- 6 -- 8 -- --- 11 --- 13 ---- 15 16 --- --- ---- 20 --- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ---- ---- ---- 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 ---
Ferguson -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --- --- --- ---- 15 16 17 18 19 ---- 21 22 23 24 25 ---- 27 28 29 ---- --- --- 33 34 35 36 37 38
Estupinan -- -- 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 --- 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Veltman --- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 --- 13 14 15 --- 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 --- 31 ---- --- --- ---- 36 37 38
Buonanotte -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ---- 20 --- 22 23 --- --- 26 --- --- --- --- 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38

apps CUPS: 23 Steele (gk) 6, 2 Lamptey 6, 5 Dunk 6, 6 Colwill 4+1, 7 March 6, 19 Sarmiento 2+2, 20 Enciso 5+1, 21 Undav 3+5,
22 Mitoma 6+1, 25 Caicedo 6, 27 Gilmour 2+1, 28 Ferguson 6+1, 29 van Hecke 3+1, 34 Veltman 2+2,
43 Turns 1, 41 Spong 1, 17 Alzate 1,
4 Webster 3+2, 13 Gross 6+1, 11 Trossard 0+1, 30 Estupinan 4+2, 14 Lallana 1, 10 Mac Allister 4+1, 18 Welbeck 2+3, 1 Sanchez 2, 26 Ayari 0+1,
40 Buonanotte 1, 49 Moran 0+1, 42 Offiah 0+1, 51 Peupion 0+1, 53 Hinchy 0+1, 47 Furlong 0+1

apps World Cup: Mac Allister 6 (finalist) Caicedo 3 Estupinan 3 Lamptey 1+1 Trossard 1+2 Sarmiento 0+3 Mitoma 0+4 Sanchez (gk) 0
* * * * *

GOALS: strikers - Mitoma 7, Ferguson 6 Welbeck 6, March 7, Undav 5, {Trossard} 7 = 38
0 goals: Sarmiento
m-f - Gross 9, Mac Allister 10, Caicedo 1, Lallana 2 Enciso 4, Buonanotte 1 = 27
0 goals: Gilmour, Moder,
def - Dunk 1, Webster 0, Lamptey 0, Veltman 1, Estupinan 1, og 4 . total = 72

Home goals: og 3
Gross 5, Welbeck 5, Mac Allister 7, Mitoma 4, March 3, Ferguson 3, Caicedo 1, Lallana 0,
Veltman 1, Enciso 1, Dunk 0, Buonanotte 0, Undav 2, Estupinan 1, {Trossard} 2 = 37
Away goals: og 1
Gross 4, Welbeck 1, Mac Allister 3, Mitoma 3, March 4, Ferguson 3, Caicedo 0, Lallana 2,
Veltman 0, Enciso 3, Dunk 1, Buonanotte 1, Undav 3, Estupinan 1, {Trossard} 5 = 35

Cups goals: Undav 3, Alzate 1, Ferguson 4, Welbeck 1, Mitoma 3, Lamptey 1, Gross 1, Lallana 1, Mac Allister 2, Dunk 1, March 1 = 19
World Cup: Caicedo, 1 Mac Allister 1

CARDS: Webster 2, Mac Allister 8 ban, Estupinan 4, Veltman 6, Caicedo 10 ban, Lamptey, Gross 6, Enciso, Sanchez 2,
Sarmiento, Gilmour, March, Ferguson, Dunk 4, Steele, Colwill, Undav 2, van Hecke 2, Buonanotte 2 = 56
Cups: van Hecke, Caicedo 2, Sarmiento, Dunk, Undav, Mitoma = 6

OUT on loan: '22 - Talley (gk), Adingra, Rushworth (gk), Roberts, Sima, Connolly, Richards, Kozlowski,
Khadra, Zeqiri, Karbownik, Weir, Leonard, Jenks, {Duffy}, Scherpen (gk), Tolaj, Kavanagh, Alzate
'23 Cahill (gk), Turns, Tolaj, Tsoungi, Spong, Furlong - see Squad tab in Main Stats above . signings, ins & outs above and past players in scroll below.

IN: Jan - Yasin Ayari (AIK), Facundo Buonanotte (Rosario) . U21s - Jamie Mullins (Bohemians), Mark O'Mahoney (Cork).
Aug - Julio Enciso (Libertad Asuncion), Simon Adingra (Nord'nd), Levi Colwill (Chelsea loan),
Pervis Estupinan (Villarreal), Billy Gilmour (Chelsea).
Academy: U21 - Ben Baker-Boaitey (Porto), Imari Samuels (Reading), Luca Barrington (Man City).
U18 - Lorenz Ferdinand (gk), Harry Lee, Harry Mills, Charlie Penman, Charlie Tasker, Zane Albarus,
Sahil Bashir, Jaydon Fuller, Joe Knight, Remeiro Moulton
Left: '23 - Trossard, Duffy
'22 - Andone, Maupay, Cucurella, Bissouma, Clarke, Cochrane, Ostigard, Baluta, Desbois, Ella, Dendoncker,
Tanimowo, Qureshi, Lucero, Sturge, Emmerson - see Past Players in scroll below.
* * * * *

Year11 SQUAD: 2021-22 - fifth PL season ~ 9th . record @ 22/5/21
APPS: 1 Sanchez (gk) 37, 2 Lamptey 16 (14), 3 Cucurella 35, 4 Webster 16 (6), 5 Dunk 29, 6 -, 7 (Connolly) 1 (3), 8 Bissouma 25 (1),
9 Maupay 25 (7), 10 Mac Allister 22 (11), 11 Trossard 32 (2), 12 Mwepu 12 (6), 13 Gross 24 (5), 14 Lallana 18 (6), 15 Moder 19 (9),
16 (Scherpen) (gk) 0, 17 Alzate 5 (4), 18 Welbeck 15 (10), 19 -, 20 March 17 (14), 21 -, 22 -, 23 Steele (gk) 1, 24 Duffy 15 (3), 25 Caicedo 8,
26 -, 27 {Locadia} 0 (1), 28 Roberts 0, 29 -, 30 (Richards) 0 (2), 31 -, 32 -, 33 {Burn} 12 (1), 34 Veltman 33 (1), 35 Baluta 0, 38 McGill (gk) 0,
42 Leonard 0, 55 Turns 0, 57 Offiah 0, 58 Ferguson 0 (1), 60 Sarmiento 1 (4).

Player of the year: Marc Cucurella . Young PoY: Jeremy Sarmiento.

Sanchez. . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 --- 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Lamptey. . -- -- -- -- - - - 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 ---- 35 36 37 38
Cucurella. - -- -- 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Webster . . 1 2 3 4 - -- -- -- -- -- 11 12 13 14 --- ---- 17 --- 19 20 21 22 23 24 --- --- --- --- --- ---- 31 ---- 33 34 35 36 37 38
Dunk. . . . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 --- --- --- --- --- --- ---- ---- 23 24 --- 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Bissouma. 1 2 3 4 5 - - -- -- 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 --- 18 19 --- --- ---- 23 24 25 26 --- 28 29 ---- 31 32 --- --- 35 36 37 38
Maupay. . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 --- 11 12 13 14 15 --- 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 --- --- 33 34 ---- 36 --- 38
M Allister . 1 2 3 4 - -- 7 8 9 10 11 12 --- --- ---- 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Trossard. . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 --- 19 20 21 22 --- 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 --- 34 35 36 37 ---
Mwepu . . . 1 2 -- -- 5 - -- -- 9 10 11 --- --- --- 15 16 17 18 19 --- --- --- --- ---- ---- --- --- --- ---- 30 31 32 33 34 35 --- --- 38
Gross . . . . 1 2 3 -- -- 6 7 8 9 10 --- 12 13 --- 15 --- 17 --- --- 20 21 22 23 24 ---- --- 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Lallana . . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 --- 14 --- 16 17 18 19 20 --- ---- 23 --- 25 --- --- 28 --- ---- 31 32 --- --- --- ---- 37 ---
Moder . . . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 --- 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 --- 29 30 --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
Alzate . . . . 1 - -- -- -- 6 -- -- -- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- 17 18 --- ---- 21 22 ---- 24 --- --- 27 28 --- --- --- --- --- ---- ---- --- --- ---
Welbeck. . . - -- 3 4 5 6 -- -- -- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- 17 18 ---- 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
March . . . . 1 2 -- 4 5 - 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 --- 18 ---- 20 21 22 --- --- 25 26 27 28 29 30 --- 32 33 34 35 36 37 38
Duffy. . . . . 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 -- 10 11 12 --- 14 15 --- --- ---- 19 ---- --- --- 23 --- 25 --- 27 --- 29 --- ---- --- --- --- ---- ---- --- ---
Veltman. . . - -- 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 --- 13 14 15 16 --- 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38

Apps CUPS: 1 Sanchez 1, 23 Steele (gk) 3, 16 (Scherpen) (gk) 1, 6 (Karbownik) 1, 12 Mwepu 2 (1), 15 Moder 3 (1), 17 Alzate 3, 19 (Zeqiri) 1,
25 Caicedo 1 (1), 28 Roberts 3, 30 (Richards) 2, 42 Leonard 2, 53 Tsoungi 1, 2 Lamptey 2, 55 Turns 1, 33 {Burn} 3, 7 (Connolly) 2, 24 Duffy 2,
4 Webster 2, 34 Veltman 2 (1), 13 Gross 3 (1), 60 Sarmiento 1 (1), 27 {Locadia} 1 (1), 18 Welbeck 1 (1), 20 March 2, 10 Mac Allister (1),
57 Offiah 1 (1), 58 Ferguson (3), 59 Moran (1), 9 Maupay 2 (1), 3 Cucurella 2 (1), 5 Dunk 1 (1), 8 Bissouma 1 (1), 11 Trossard (1).

GOALS: strikers - Maupay 8 (2 pens), Welbeck 6, Trossard 8 (1 pen), Ferguson 0, Sarmiento 0, (Connolly) 0, {Locadia 0} = 22
m-f - Mac Allister 5 (2 pens), Mwepu 2, Lallana 0, Bissouma 1, Moder 0, Gross 2, March 0, Alzate 0, Caicedo 1, (Richards) 0 = 11
def - Duffy 1, Dunk 1, Webster 2, Lamptey 0, Cucurella 1, Veltman 1, og 2, {Burn} 1 = 9 . total = 42

Home goals: Maupay 3, Trossard 3, Welbeck 3, Mac Allister, Webster, Duffy, Caicedo, Cucurella, Gross 2, Veltman, og 2 = 19
Away goals: Maupay 5, Trossard 5, Welbeck 3, Mac Allister 4, Webster, Mwepu 2, Dunk, Bissouma, {Burn} = 23

Cups: (Connolly) 2, Moder 2, (Zeqiri) 1, Webster 1, Mwepu 1, Maupay 1, Bissouma 1 = 9

CARDS: red - Sanchez, Dunk . yellow - Maupay 7, Duffy 7, Dunk 3, Webster 5, March 2, Mwepu 2, Bissouma 10, Veltman 6,
Sanchez 2, Lallana 4, Trossard 2, {Burn} 4, Cucurella 5, Moder 1, Lamptey 4, Mac Allister 4, Gross 1, Caicedo 2 = 71
Cups: EFL Cup = 0 . FA Cup = Veltman 1.

injured: (Mwepu, Sarmiento, Webster) . rehab: Moder, (Sarmiento) . ban: (Bissouma, Dunk) . ill: (Trossard, Alzate, Caicedo, Mac A) .
Afcon: (Bissouma) . WC/qs: [Moder], Bissouma, Mac Allister, (Alzate, Caicedo).
OUT on loan: {Walton}, Zeqiri, Clarke, T Jenks, Cochrane, {Longman}, Weir, Rushworth (gk), (Caicedo), (Dendoncker),
Ostigard, Andone, Mitoma^ (RUSG), Karbownik, Molumby, van Hecke, Khadra, {Arce}, [Sima^] (Stoke),
January window - Kozlowski^ (RUSG), Connolly, Richards, Tolaj, Undav^ (RUSG), Scherpen . . . . see ins & loans in scroll below.

IN Jan window: Kacper Kozlowski^ (P Szczecin), Deniz Undav^ (RUSG) . ON LOAN: Benicio Baker-Boaitey (Porto).
Jul/Aug signings: Kjell Scherpen (Ajax), Jeremy Sarmiento (Benfica), Jack Hinchy (Stockport),
Enock Mwepu (RB Saltzburg), Kaoru Mitoma^ (Kawasaki), Marc Cucurella (Getafe), Ab Sima^ (Prague) . . . . . see signings in scroll below.
^ indicates signing played elsewhere.
Academy: Aug '21 - Josh Duffus, Hugo Fisher (gk), Jake Gee (Fulham), Jack Hinshelwood, Eliot Jenks,
Ruairi McConville (Linfield), Tommy Reid (gk), Bailey Smith (Worthing), Joe Winstanley (Wigan).
Jan '22 - Killian Cahill (gk) (Shamrock), James Beadle (gk), Casey Shann (Sutton), Billie Clark (Whitehawk), Kain Ryan.

Left: '22 - Locadia, Walton, Burn, Longman, Arce, Molumby . '21 - Izquierdo, Propper, Mlakar, Bernardo,
Gyokeres, Ryan, Jahanbakhsh, White, Tau . . . . see outs & past players in long scroll below.
* * * * *

Year10 Squad: 2020-21 - fourth PL season ~ 16th . record @ 24/5/21.
APPS: (1 Ryan 11*), 2 Lamptey 11, 3 White 35, 4 Webster 29, 5 Dunk 33, 6 Karbownik 0, 7 Connolly 9 (7), 8 Bissouma 35 (1),
9 Maupay 29 (4), 10 Mac Allister 13 (8), 11 Trossard 30 (4), 12 -, 13 Gross 27 (7), 14 Lallana 16 (12), 15 Moder 7 (5), 16 Jahanbakhsh 6 (14),
17 Alzate 10 (5), 18 Welbeck 17 (7), 19 Izquierdo 0 (1), 20 March 19 (2), 21 Andone 0, 22 Tau 1 (2), 23 Steele 0, 24 Propper 2 (5), 25 Caicedo 0,
26 Sanchez 27, 27 -, 28 -, 29 Zeqiri 0 (9), (30 Bernardo 2 (1)*), 31 Walton 0, 32 -, 33 Burn 23 (4), 34 Veltman 25 (3), 35 -, 36 -, 37 -, 38 -, 39 -,
40 -, (41 Sanders 0+), (49 Molumby 0 (1)*), 67 Khadra (1) . . . * loaned, + left.

Cups: Steele 4, Molumby 2, Veltman 4 (2), Burn 5, Bernardo 3 (1), Jahanbakhsh 4, Stephens 1, Propper 3 (1), Mac Allister 5 (1), Gross 5 (1), Gyokeres 3, Dunk 4, White 3, Roberts 1 (1), Sanders 1 (2), Gwargis (2), Jenks (1), Cochrane (1), Maupay 1 (2), Trossard (3),
March 1 (1), Webster 2, Bissouma 2 (1), Zeqiri 3, Tau 2 (1), Walton 2, Alzate 2, Lallana 1, Moder 1, Karbownik 1.

GOALS: og 1, Maupay 8, Connolly 2, Trossard 5, March 2, Bissouma 1, Mac Allister 1,
Lamptey 1, Welbeck 6, Gross 3, Dunk 5, Alzate 1, Veltman 1, Lallana 1, Webster 1, Burn 1 - total = 40.
Cups: Mac Allister 2, Jahanbakhsh 2, Bernardo 1, Gyokeres 1, March 1, Bissouma 1, Alzate 1 - total = 9.

CARDS: red - Bissouma, Dunk 2, Lamptey, White, Maupay . yellow - Dunk 5, White 3, Webster 4, Burn 5, Lamptey 2, Trossard 2, Alzate 2, Bissouma 8, Ryan 1, Veltman 3, Gross 3, Jahanbakhsh 2, Mac Allister 1, Maupay 1, Sanchez 2 - total = 45.
Cups: Gross 1, Burn 1, Veltman 1, Bissouma 1 - total = 4.

Injured: Welbeck, Veltman, Propper, Lamptey, March, Khadra . Sick: 0 . Ban: Maupay.
Out on loan: '21 - Gyokeres, Molumby, Bernardo, Ryan, Arce - - - - see ***PL ins & loans*** in long scroll below.
'20 - Murray+, Duffy, Clarke, Mlakar, Arce, Tau*, Locadia, O'Hora+, Richards, Longman, Ostigard, McGill, van Hecke, Rees, Gyokeres,
Cochrane, Moder*, Karbownik*, Baluta, Roberts, Leahy . . * recalled, + left.

Signings: '21 - Moises Caicedo (Ind'te de Valle), Evan Furguson (Bohemians), Jack Wakely (Chelsea loan).
'20 - Joel Veltman (Ajax), Adam Lallana (Liverpool), Jensen Weir (Wigan), Jan Paul van Hecke (Breda), Ulrick Eneme Ella (Amiens),
Reda Khadra (B Dortmund), Andi Zeqiri (Lusanne), Jakub Moder (L Poznan), Michal Karbownik (L Warsaw), Danny Welbeck.
U23/U18: Samy Chouchane (Boulogne), Cameron Peupion (Sydney), Lars Dendoncker (Brugge), Leigh Kavanagh & Andy Moran (Bray),
Zac Emmerson (Oldham), Casper Nilsson (Malmo), Ben Jackson (Watford).
Academy: Zak Sturge, Jaami Qureshi, John Lucero, Toby Collyer.
Left: '21 - O'Hora, Murray, Sanders . U23 - Cashman, Gwargis, Kazukolovas, Rees, Vukoje, Leahy, Crofts (head coach).
'20 - Balogun, Knockaert, Kayal, Schelotto, Montoya, Mooy, Button, Stephens - - - - see ***Past Players*** in long scroll below.
* * * * *

U23 GROUP: coach - Shannon Ruth, previously Andrew Crofts . asst - Gary Dicker.
'22/3 - 61 Beadle (gk), 63 Cahill (gk), 41 Spong, 42 Offiah, 43 Turns, 46 Tsoungi, 47 Furlong, 49 Moran, 50 Everitt, 51 Peupion, 52 Wilson,
53 Hinchy, 54 Couchane, 56 Packham, 58 Ifill, 60 Nilsson, 66 Samuels, 67 Barrington, 69 Baker-Boaitey, 70 Miller, 71 Hinshelwood, 72 Jackson.
'21 - 48 (Dicker coach), 38 McGill (gk), 63 (Desbois) (gk), 62 (Talley) (gk), 28 Roberts, (30 Richards),
35 Baluta, 44 (Tolaj), 42 Leonard, 53 Tsoungi, 41 Spong, 57 Offiah, 65 Wilson, 56 (Packham), 54 Furlong,
49 Tanimowo, 45 Ella, 69 Everitt, 55 Turns, [60 Sarmiento], 67 Hinchy, 70 Miller, 68 Peupion.
On loan '21: 26 Khadra, (25 Caicedo), (Arce), (Dendoncker), 29 van Hecke, 54 Weir, 62 Rushworth (gk), 47 T Jenks .
'22: Tolaj, Packham . '23 Cahill
Left '21 - Wakely (loan), Vukoje, Kazukolovas, Gwargis, Cashman, Rees (gk), Dackers, Yapi, Leahy.
Silverware: Sussex Senior Cup winners '22.
U18 Group: coach - James Baxter.
'23 - Ferdinand (gk), Lee, Mills, Penman, Tasker, Winstanley, Albarus, Bashir, Fuller, Knight, Moulton, Owusu.
'22 - Cahill (gk), Beadle (gk), Ryan, Shann, Clark, Baker-Boaitey (on loan).
'21 - 82 Fisher (gk), 81 Reid (gk), 89 McConville, 88 Winstanley, 87 Gee, 83 Hishelwood, 84 E Jenks, 86 Smith, 85 Duffus.
'20 - (Talley gk), Bull (gk), (Offiah), Nilsson, Kavanagh, Jackson, (Turns), Ifill, Collyer, Chouchane,
Moran, (Peupion), Lucero, Sturge, (Everitt), (Miller), Emmerson, Qureshi, Ferguson.
Silverware: U17 Cup winners '21.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Prem Squads 7-9

Falmer Years: 2017 - 2020 (seasons 7-9) Premier League (1st to 3rd terms) & PL2 (U23) group.

Year9 Squads: 2019-20 - third PL season (suspended, extended) ~ 15th . . Plus PL2 div1 (abandoned).
Prem completed - apps, goals & cards @ 26/7/20. See Goals tab in Stats for Prem years Appearances totals.
APPS: 1 RYAN (gk) 38, 2 Lamptey 7 (1), (3 Bong 0 (4)), 4 DUFFY 12 (7), 5 DUNK (capt) 35, 6 STEPHENS 28 (5), 7 MAUPAY 28 (7),
8 BISSOUMA 15 (7), (9 Locadia 1 (1)), 10 Mac Allister 4 (5) (Andone 1 (2)), 11 TROSSARD 22 (9), 12 -, 13 GROSS 22 (7),
(14 Balogun 0), 15 WEBSTER 31, 16 Jahanbakhsh 3 (7), 17 Murray 7 (16), 18 MOOY 25 (6), 19 Izquierdo 0, 20 MARCH 11 (8),
(21 Schelotto 4 (4)), 22 MONTOYA 23 (4), 23 Steele (gk) 0, 24 PROPPER 32 (3), (25 Kayal 0), 26 -, 27 Button (gk) 0,
(28 Baluta 0), 29 -, 30 Bernardo 7 (7), 31 -, 32 -, 33 BURN 33 (1), 44 CONNOLLY 14 (10), 46 ALZATE 12 (7), 50 Cochrane 0 (0).

Cups: 27 Button 3, 14 Balogun 2, 15 Webster 2, 3 Bong 3, 46 Alzate 2, 18 Mooy 1, 13 Gross 2, 30 Bernardo 1 (1), 16 Jahanbakhsh 1 (1),
44 Connolly 2 (1), 17 Murray 1, 6 Stephens 1, 4 Duffy 1, 21 Schelotto 1, 8 Bissouma 1, 7 Maupay 1,
58 Roberts 1, 51 A Davies 1, 28 Baluta 1, 72 Jenks 1, 50 Cochrane 1, 45 Richards 1, 55 Gwargis 1, 49 Yapi (1), 60 Longman (1), 71 Spong (1).

GOALS: og 4, Maupay 10, Connolly 3, Trossard 5, Mooy 2, Gross 2, Webster 3, Duffy 1, Dunk 3, Propper 1,
Jahanbakhsh 2, Murray 1, Bissouma 1, Andone 1 = 39
Cups: Connolly 1, Murray 1, Roberts 1 = 3
CARDS: Red - Mooy, Andone = 2. Yellow - Dunk 9 ban, Mooy 3, Webster 5, Stephens 8 ban, Propper 4, Montoya 5,
Burn 4, Maupay 3, Duffy 2, Alzate 1, March 2, Gross 4, Bissouma 4, Bernardo 1, Schelotto 1, Lamptey 2 = 58
Cups: Connolly 1, Richards 1, Roberts 1, Maupay 1 = 4.

Left; '20 - Dreyer, Tilley, Bong, Ahannach, Shihab, Balogun, Knockaert, Schelotto, Kayal.
'19 - Bruno (BHA coach), Suttner, Towell, Collar, Mateju, Hemed,
Out on loan; Tau, White, Knockaert, Walton (gk), Molumby, Mlakar, Gyokeres, Clarke, Locadia, Andone, Baluta.
PL Signings; Jan 20 - Tariq Lamptey (r-b Chelsea). Jul 20 - Jensen Weir (m-f Wigan), Adam Lallana (m-f Liverpool), Joel Veltman (def Ajax).
Aug 19 - Matt Clarke (c-d Portsmouth), Leandro Trossard* (winger Genk), Adam Webster* (c-def Bristol C),
Neal Maupay* (striker Brentford), Aaron Mooy* (m-f Huddersfield). * for 25 man squad (8 homegrown players).

U23 squad; Crofts* (pl/coach), Keto (gk), Cochrane (C), A Davies, J Davies, Longman, Roberts, O'Hora, Spong,
Gwargis, Kazukolovas, Freestone, Richards, Yapi, Cashman, Ifill.
U23s released; '20 - J Davies, A Davies, Freestone, Keto, Lopata, Radulovic, Cox.
'19 - Barclay, Moore, Tomlinson, Kerr, Hall, Ljubicic, Collings, Weaire, Carre.
U23 signings; Taylor Richards (m-f Man City), Todd Miller (winger Colchester), Lewis Freestone (def Peterbro), Romaric Yapi (def PSG).
Jan 20 - Markus Ifill (mf Swindon). July 20 - Sam Packham, Ayo Tanimowo.
U23 out on loan; Sanchez (gk), Rushworth (gk), Rees (gk), Cox, Sanders, Ostigard, Arce, Shihab, McGill (gk), Radulovic.
U18 squad: Bentley (gk), Desbois (gk), Bull (gk), Packham, Cocoracchio, Offiah, Tanimowo, Miller, Turns, Jenks, Leahy,
Furlong, Tsoungui, Tolaj, Leonard, Wilson, Everitt, Vukoje.
U18 loaned - Clarke-Eden, Lopata, Talley (gk), Dackers. Left: Cococracchio
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Year8 Squads: 2018-19 - second PL season ~ 17th . . Plus PL2 div1 ~ 3rd
PL APPS - 1 Ryan (gk) 34, 2 Bruno 14, 3 Bong 19 (3), 4 Duffy 35, 5 Dunk 36, 6 Stephens 29 (1), 7 Kayal 9 (9), 8 Bissouma 13 (11), 9 Locadia 12 (14), 10 Andone 8 (15), 11 Knockaert 18 (12), 12 Keto (gk loaned), 13 Gross 24 (1), 14 Balogun 5 (3), 15, 16 Jahanbakhsh 12 (7), 17 Murray 31 (7), 18, 19 Izquierdo 9 (6), 20 March 30 (5), 21 Schelotto (loaned), 22 Montoya 24 (1), 23 Steele (gk) 0, 24 Propper 30, 25 Hemed (loaned),
26 Tau (loaned), 27 Button (gk) 4, 28 White (loaned), 29 Suttner (loaned), 30 Bernardo 19 (3), 41 Sanders 0, 42 Gyokeres 0, 49 Molumby 0.

CUPS 1 Ryan 2, 27 Button 4, 23 Steele 1, 58 Collar 1, 3 Bong 1 (1), 35 Barclay 1, 30 Bernardo 5, 4 Duffy 5, 14 Balogun 2, 29 Suttner 1, 2 Bruno 4, 22 Montoya 3 (1), 16 Jahanbakhsh 5, 11 Knockaert 6, 7 Kayal 6, 8 Bissouma 6, 6 Stephens 5, 42 Gyokeres 2 (2), 13 Gross 1 (1), 9 Locadia 5 (3), 24 Propper 2 (3), 44 Connolly 0 (1), 20 March (2), 10 Andone 3 (1), 33 Burn 3, Murray 2 (2), 19 Izquierdo (2).

GOALS - Murray 13, Gross 3, Duffy 5, Knockaert 2, Kayal 1, Dunk 2, Andone 3, Balogun 1, March 1, Locadia 2, Stephens 1, Propper 1 = 35
Cups - Knockaert 2, Bissouma 1, Andone 2, Murray 2, Locadia 2, March 1 = 10

CARDS; red - Stephens, Duffy, Dunk, Knockaert = 4, yellow - Ryan 2, Duffy 4, Dunk 7, Montoya 4, Bernardo 4, Stephens 6, Murray 5, Balogun 2, Propper 2, Knockaert 4, Locadia 1, Bissouma 5, Kayal 4, Jahanbakhsh 2, Bruno 2, Izquierdo 1, Andone 5, March 1, Gross 1 = 59
Cups - Bissouma 3, Stephens 1, Locadia 1, Bruno 1, Bernardo 1, Montoya 1, Dunk 1, Jahanbakhsh 1 = 10

SIGNINGS; winter window - Jan Mlakar (Maribor), Tudor-Cristian Baluta (Constanta), Alexis Mac Allister (Argentinos)
summer window - Martin Montoya* (rb Valencia), Dan Burn* (def Wigan), Alireza Jahanbakhsh* (winger Alkmaar), Yves Bissouma* (mf Lille), David Button* (gk Fulham), Bernardo Silva* (def RB Leipzig), Jason Steele* (gk Sunderland), Leon Balogun* (c-d Mainz),
Florin Andone* (striker La Coruna), Percy Tau (striker Sundowns SA).
Out on loan - Tau (Belgium), Towell (Rotherham), Walton (gk Wigan), Hemed (QPR). To Jan 19 - Burn (Wigan), Norwood (Sheff U).
From Jan 19 - Suttner (Dussledorf), Schelotto (Verona), Mlakar (Maribor), Baluta (Constanta), Allister (Argentinos)
U23s loaned - Mateju (Spain), Tomlinson (Bognor), to Jan 19 - Radulovic (Spain), Alzate (Swindon), Hall (Notts Co), Sanchez (Forest Green). From Jan 19 - Arce (Spain), Kerr (Derry), White (Peterboro), Barclay (Notts Co), Cox (Northampton), McGill (gk Basinstoke), Tilley (Cork),
Dreyer (St Mirren), Ljubicic (Eastbourne), Connolly (Luton), Keto (Waterford).
U23 '18 signings - Joe Tomlinson (def Yeovil), Hugo Keto (gk Arsenal), Billy Arce (striker Independiente), Anders Dreyer (winger Esbjerg),
Leo Ostigard (def Molde), Peter Gwargis (m-f Jonkopings).
Left - Norwood, Skalak, Baldock, Krul, Maenpaa, Goldson, Murphy, Huenemeier, Sidwell (youth coach), Rosenior (U23 coach), Ince, Ulloa.
U23s left - Mandroiu, Maguire-Drew. Normann.
U23s released - Hutchinson, Hornby-Forbes, Dallison, Ayunga, Bjordal, Vose, O'Sullivan, Meekums, Kone, Ajiboye.

U23 PL2 div1 - coach Simon Rusk, Squad; Keto (gk loaned), 31 Sanchez (gk), 62 Collings (gk), 61 McGill (gk loaned), Rees (gk U18).
Def - Tomlinson (loaned), 28 White (loaned), 47 Cox (loaned), 35 Barclay (loaned), 48 Hall, Roberts (U18), 52 J Davies, 54 Kerr (loaned),
53 O'Hora, 45 Moore, 57 Ostigard, Tanimowo (U18). M-F - Barker, 58 Collar, 55 Mandroiu (left), 49 Molumby, 51 A Davies, 41 Sanders,
66 Normann (left), 64 Cochrane, 39 Ahannach, Dreyer (loaned), Gwargis, Araujo (U18). FWD - Radulovic, 43 Tilley (loaned), 42 Gyokeres,
44 Connolly (loaned), 65 Ljubicic (loaned), Longman (U18), 71 Spong (U18), 73 Cashman (U18), Wilson (U18)
18/19 - P22 W9 D8 L5 F37 A27 GD+10 Pt35 Po3. Sussex Senior Cup - semi-finals.
U18 squad - Rushworth (gk), Zalewski (gk), Clarke-Eden, Tutt, Weaire, Lopata, Packham, Jenks, Leonard, Vukoje, Carre, Tolaj, Cocoracchio.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Year7 Squad: 2017-18 - first PL season ~ 15th . . Plus PL2 div2 (U23) ~ promoted.
RETAINED Champ's group; keepers - Niki Maenpaa*, Def - Bruno*, Lewis Dunk*, Shane Duffy*, Uwe Huenemeier*, Connor Goldson*,
Liam Rosenior*, Gaetan Bong*, M-F - Dale Stephens*, Beram Kayal*, Steve Sidwell*, FWD - Glenn Murray*, Sam Baldock*,
Tomer Hemed*, Solly March*, Anthony Knockaert*, Jiri Skalak*
Out on loan - Chris Walton (gk), Ollie Norwood, Rohan Ince, Richie Towell, Jamie Murphy.
U23s - Ben Hall, Ben White, Jordan Maguire-Drew, Tyler Hornby-Forbes, Tom Dallison, Jonah Ayunga.
Left - Ankergren (gk coach), Forren, O'Grady, Adekugbe, Akpom, Tomori, Pocognoli, Stockdale, Manu, Hunt, later - LuaLua, Brown.

SIGNINGS; Close & pre-season - Pascal Gross* (mf - Ingolstadt), Maty Ryan* (gk - Valencia), Markus Suttner* (lb - Ingolstadt),
Izzy Brown (mf - Chelsea loan), Davy Propper* (mf - PSV)
U23s - Josh Kerr (def - Celtic), Mathias Normann (mf - Bodo Glimt, loaned out), Ales Mateju (rb - Pizen),
Soufyan Ahannach (winger - Almere, loaned out), Steven Alzate (striker - Orient)
August window - Jose Izquierdo* (winger - Brugge), Ezequiel Schelotto* (full-back - Sporting), Tim Krul* (keeper - Newcastle)
January window - Jurgen Locadia* (striker - PSV Eindhoven), Leonardo Ulloa* (Leicester loan),
U23s - Viktor Gyokeres (striker - Bromma), Warren O'Hora (c-d Bohemians), Bojan Radulovic (str Lleida), Stefan Ljubicic.

APPS; 1 Ryan (gk) 38, 2 Bruno 23 (2), 3 Bong 25, 4 Huenemeier 0 (1), 5 Dunk 38, 6 Stephens 36, 7 Kayal 8 (11), 8 Skalak 0, 9 Baldock 0 (2),
10 Hemed 8 (7), 11 Knockaert 27 (6), 12 Maenpaa (gk) 0, 13 Gross 35 (3) PoY, 14 Sidwell 0, 15 Murphy 1 (3) (loaned), 16 Ulloa 2 (8) (on loan),
17 Murray 25 (10), 18 Goldson 2 (1), 19 Izquierdo 23 (8), 20 March 18 (18), 21 Schelotto 15 (6), 22 Duffy 37, 23 Rosenior 1 (2), 24 Propper 35,
25 Locadia 3 (3), 26 Krul (gk) 0, 27 -, 28 -, 29 Suttner 13 (1), 30 LuaLua 0 (left), 31 Walton (gk loaned), 32 -, 33 -, 34 Ince (loaned), 35 -,
36 Towell (loaned), 37 Brown 4 (9) (left), 38 Mateju (U23), 39 Ahannach (loaned), 47 Hutchinson (U23), 49 Molumby (U23),
51 Sanders (U23), 66 Connolly (U23), 70 Tilley (U23)

Cups - Maenpaa 1 (1), Krul 5, Rosenior 3, Bruno 1, Suttner 3, Bong 3, Schelotto 3, Goldson 5, Huenemeier 5, Knockaert 3 (1), March 3 (1), Stephens 3, Propper 1 (4), Kayal 4, Izquierdo 2 (2), Skalak 3, Hemed 3, Murray 0 (3), Baldock 1 (2), Ulloa 2, Locadia 2, Dunk 1, Duffy 1, Gross 1, Murphy 1, Brown 1, Molumby 2, Hutchinson 1, Ince 1, Towell 1, Mateju 0 (2), Tilley 0 (1), Connolly 0 (1)

GOALS; Murray 12, Gross 7, Izquierdo 5 GoY, Hemed 2, Knockaert 3, March 1, Dunk 1, Ulloa 1, Locadia 1, og 1 = 34
Cups - Murray 2, Stephens 1, Ulloa 1, Locadia 1, Goldson 1, Tilley 1 = 7
CARDS: Red - Knockaert 1, Propper 1 = 2. Yellows - Dunk 7, Duffy 8, Murray 9, Knockaert 4, Bruno 3, Stephens 6, March 3, Propper 2,
Izquierdo 2, Gross 2, Bong 2, Schelotto 3, Goldson 1, Kayal 2 = 54
Cups - Skalak 1, Knockaert 1, Baldock 1, Propper 1, Izquierdo 1, Kayal 1 = 6
* * * * *

Chris Hughton

Falmer Years: 2015 to 2019 Championship & Premier League, Seasons 4-8.
To Seagulls from Magpies, via Canaries.
On New Year's Eve, after a hectic Xmas period for 2014, Tony Bloom appointed the very experienced coach and proven manager on a 3.5yr contract. On a fans published vote, Chris Hughton was not first choice but there was no doubting his official credentials to step into the Albion hot-seat and become the fourth Amex boss in the last couple of years.
Hughton played for Spurs & West Ham at fullback and had over 50 Rep of Ireland caps. He hung boots up over twenty years ago but the then 56yo had established as a top flite coach for over 15yrs or so prior to getting the gaffers job at Newcastle in 2009.
In 2011 while at Birmingham, he guided Blues into Championship play-offs. Then Hughton went again into the Prem with Norwich before leaving the club as they faced relegation in 2014. At level two he has seen it, done it and worn the t-shirt.
In the event, the mission was accomplished - when Albion escaped all relegation issues but failed to reach a nominal 50 points safety target. The following season 15/16 Chris Hughton took BHA to very brink of automatic promotion - getting the LMA award to boot, as the club contested play-offs. He was then awarded a 4yr contract by Tony Bloom.
At end of the 16/17 season Hughton took BHA into the Premiership automatically from clear 2nd place. After a seafront parade he & Tony Bloom were bestowed with freedom of the city. Chris Hughton also won the LMA Championship manager of the year for the second season running with BHA, having previously gained that peer title when with Newcastle. CH duly delivered again, steering Albion to PL survival with 2 games to spare. He was deservedly awarded a new deal until end of 20/21 season. At beginning of 2019 Chris Hughton entered his 5th year as manager, a stat which was unusual to say the least in any PL club, or indeed EFL division. After the second Prem campaign CH again managed to keep BHA in the divison for another term. However he paid the ultimate price following a disappointing run of results from Jan 2019. Brighton fans did not realise he would be gone the day following end of season laps at the Amex but that heartfelt thank you was in fact farewell. Hughton returned to the merrygoround as a Championship manager at struggling Forest in Oct '20. His reputation as a man able to fix things going before him into a very tough league for challenges... plus ongoing circumstances of covid. Unfortunately he was sacked in Sept '21 after a poor no-win level2 start. CH was in a technical advisory role to Ghana FA during June '22 as part of Afcon/WC build ups. And later at Qatar finals in Nov '22. He next got the Ghana head coach job in Feb '23.
* * * * *

BHA Coaches

Falmer Years: 2011 to 2025, seasons 1-14
Initial Amex organisation for 11/12 - Championship.
From the successful League1 title-winners of 10/11 at Withdean, Albion had Assistant Manager Mauricio Taricco to help Gus Poyet on the practice pitch. He duly retained first team coach and reserve eleven manager, Charlie Oatway - a previous player in the Withdean era.
Also re-appearing, based at our new Falmer facility were; Tony Godden (GK coach), Luke Williams (development squad), plus Steve Brown and Vic Bragg (youth team).
However the club soon reorganised with just Bragg answering to original Director of Football Martin Hinshelwood. Gus Poyet had a strategy for the future that required all squads, from youth to first team, to play passing football using similar shapes and tactics.
Thus Hinsh and Bragg became Academy Managers in the revamped set-up for 2012 onwards. Simon Rusk took over as Youth Team Coach.
The medical team too quickly shuffled the Amex pack; Nathan Ring (head physio), Matt Miller (conditioning & sport science) and Dean Lobb with Antony Stuart (sports therapists). Ex-player Paul Watson remained as physio, Stephen McAleer was youth physio, Robin Turner resumed orthopaedic consultant role, while Luke Hampton was club masseur again. James Clarke-Reed got appointed performance analyst.
Early in 2012 Dr Helge Riepenhof, a top German sports doctor, was appointed full-time head of sport-med&science.
Poyet wanted professionalism and expertise in all associated areas, so promoted BHA stalwart Ade Cooper to Chief Scout (opposition analyst). He took over in lieu of John Stevenson, recent head of football operations, who in turn had replaced Zigor Aranalde for 11/12. Another ex-Seagull Warren Aspinal, was re-employed as southern scout. Ex-manager Barry Lloyd still associated with BHA in a talent spotting role.
From Jan 2012, David Burke became official Hd of Ops. Incidentally, Paul Barber took over as CEO and had an FA coaching qualification.
In close season of 12/13 Andy Beasley replaced Tony Godden as keepers coach. He had previous with Gus at Swindon and Leeds. Then John Morling became Academy Manager in lieu of Martin Hinshelwood. Later Mervyn Day (ex-Chelsea keeper) got appointed manager of scouting.
* * * * *
Personnel changes from 2013 - Championship.
At end of 12/13, Taricco and Oatway were suspended by the club along with manager Poyet. Tanno was soon cleared of any wrong-doing. However he left the club following the sacking of Gus Poyet. Oatway moved on soon afterwards - thanked by the club but in undisclosed ignominious circumstances.
During the close season, Juan Torrijo Navaro, Rubens Martinez and Joaquin Gomez came on board as fitness and assistant coaches to new gaffer Oscar Garcia. Simultaneously Luke Williams vacated his job with the development squad. Keeper coach Andy Beasley also left.
Nathan Jones an ex-Seagull from the Withdean era (see squads y2k onwards) accepted the post of head assistant coach. He had previously been asst mgr at Yeovil before moving to Charlton. He could also speak Spanish - mucho bueno senor.
Paul Holder began as Head of Academy coaching. Simon Ireland (ex-Blackburn) got appointed academy U21 coach.
More revisions for 2014 - Championship.
Sami Hyypia became manager but Nathan Jones remained - initially as First Team Coach, then Asst Mgr and Joaquin Gomez took that coaching role. Goalkeeping coach now was Antii Niemi, former custodian with top pedigree as a handler.
David Burke was still Head of Ops and now assisted by Paul Winstanley as recruitment manger.
John Morling was Head of Academy - at the new training complex in Lancing. The Academy was granted category one status - to play in Prem Lg div2. U21 coach was Simon Ireland and U18 coach was Simon Rusk. Mark Anderson was academy recruitment manager.
Dr Reipenhof stood down from the medical services unit, so Adam Brett took the post. Seagulls strength & conditioning manager was now Tom Barnden. The club doc became Dr Stephen Lewis.
2015 thru 2017 - Championship.
With the resignation of Sami Hyypia just before Xmas, Tony Bloom decided to revamp admin and David Burke was first out of the Academy door. Nathan Jones became caretaker prior to the New Year. Chris Calderwood as former right-hand man of new boss Chris Hughton, then joined BHA as asst mgr. Jones became 1st team coach with Niemi in support but Gomez left. And Simon Rusk stepped up to U21s. Head of admin was now Paul Mullen. Ewan Chester joined the scouting team.
For 15/16, ex-Albion goalie Ben Roberts took over as keeper coach. At New Year Nathan Jones left to become manager at Luton. He was eventually succeeded as first team coach by Paul Nevin, a former Prem Lg head of coaching, in the 2016 close season.
Nathan Jones was headhunted in Jan19 by Stoke and took Joaquin Gomez with him to the ambitious ex-Prem oufit.
In 16/17 Simon Rusk took charge under the new U23 Prem Lg div2 status and also Checkatrade Trophy competition. In November Calderwood left and was replaced in a week by Paul Trollope as asst mngr - he had previously worked with Hughton at B'ham & Norwich.
* * * * *
From Aug 2017 - in the ***Premiership***
Assistant manager - Paul Trollope, First team coach - Paul Nevin, GK coach - Ben Roberts, veteran keeper Casper Ankergren joined the U23 gk coaching staff. Strength & conditioning - Tom Barnden.
Academy Manager - John Morling, U23 coach - Simon Rusk, U23 asst/Academy gk coach - Shannon Ruth, U18 coach - Ian Buckman, youth coach - Martin Hinshelwood. Original coach Vic Bragg moved into another role at BHA.
Support; Head of Med - Adam Brett. Physios - Paul Watson, Sam Blanchard. Doctor - Stephen Lewis. Sports Science - Martin Springham.
During summer 2018 David Weir was appointed in the new post of pathway development manager to oversee loans out for U23 & squad players. Ex-fullback Liam Rosenior didn't exactly hang up boots when moving into academy admin as U23 assistant coach.
And legend Bobby Zamora officially returned to the club as an ambassador. Steve Sidwell also announced his retirement and rejoined as asst youth coach, with boot room duties and an ambassador to boot.
From spring 2019 Dan Ashworth was hired as technical director, with aspects involving sports science (Springham), academy (Morling) & recruitment (Winstanley, Weir). Those dept managers reported to him. Manager Chris Hughton was not directly part of that heirarchy. First team coach Paul Nevin was called up to the England training group. In Nov '18 CEO Paul Barber was made Deputy Chairman by the Board - he also had responsibilities for PL clubs at FA meetings.
At end of the 18/19 season manager Chris Hughton, assistant Paul Trollope & 1st team coach Paul Nevin were all relieved of duties.
* * * * *
19/20 - Within a week Graham Potter accepted an offer to join BHA as head coach and brought his assistant Billy Reid, coach Bjorn Hamberg and also Kyle Macaulay along (assistant for recruitment to Paul Winstanley), to enhance Seagulls set up at Lancing. Conditioning - Tom Barnden, GK coach - Ben Roberts, U23 coach - Simon Rusk, asst - Shannon Ruth, U18 coaches - Mark Beard, Mikey Harris. Newly retired Bruno joined the team as senior player development coach. He was also made patron of AITC charity arm. Liam Rosenior left for a job with Derby County coaching staff. He was replaced by ex-Albion midfielder Andrew Crofts as U23 group player/coach. After a period of stability at Lancing, successful U23 coach Simon Rusk left to join National League club Stockport in Jan '21. He was joined there as assistant by U18s boss Mark Beard in July '21. Meanwhile Crofts stepped in to be joint U23 coach/admin mgr, later promoted sole full-time head coach from June '21. Academy assistant Shannon Ruth also moved up and took on a senior development post. Ex-Albion midfielder Gary Dicker rejoined the club as player/coach for U23s. James Baxter got U18 responsibilities.
* * * * *
At end of the fourth Prem season (20/21) a coaching initiative was announced by Dan Ashworth (football director) between BHA and Hibernian of the SPL. Each club would exchange youth & development players to get experience in a different environment with a view to mutual advantage. Chief operating officer Paul Mullen became a board member. His previous responsibilities began in 2015 with BHA administration but now include running of the complex Lancing training set up's varied depts.
In '21 post-pandemic consequences saw an overhaul of the first squad with several established players let go or borrowed by other clubs. Some youngsters on PL fringes and also new U23 aged signings were sent out on loan for experience in either the SPL, EFL or abroad.
At end of Sept '21 Casper Ankergren left BHA after 11 years and returned to homeland Denmark as a goalkeeping coach. Jack Stern became asst gk coach in Jan '22. He had 4yrs experience in the MLS at Cincinnati after 4yrs at Montreal.
David Weir was promoted to assist Dan Ashworth as technical director from previous pathway management. Ashworth resigned in Feb '22 so Weir duly stepped up - an acting role at first. Also Ex-Albion c-d Gordon Greer took on player development (loans) duties - these 2 apts confirmed in May '22. In Jan '22 Gary Dicker retired from playing to become a U18 group coach with James Baxter. By June '22 Ian Buckman acted in the Academy Manager seat, later as full Director. Analyist Nick Stanley also took on a set-play specialist coaching role.
* * * * *
Shortly into the sixth Prem season 22/23 Graham Potter accepted an offer from Chelsea. He also took the 1st 11 coaching team too, including Bruno & Ben Roberts. By end of Sept BHA appointed Roberto de Zerbi at 43yo an Italian with experience in Serie A and also the Ukraine with Shakhtar Donestsk. RdZ brought backroom staff in from previous club tenures. Assistant head coach is Enrico Venturelli, asst Andrea Maldera, athletic coaches are Agostino Tibaudi, Vincenzo Teresa & Marcattilio Marcattilii. New gk coach is Ricard Segarra. Andrew Crofts stepped up to 1st team coach and Shannon Ruth to U21 coach, assisted by Gary Dicker - previously from U18s. Arthur Brammer became coach for Pro Development. A couple of weeks later Salvatore Monaco took over as assistant head of recruitment, replacing Kyle Macaulay, who went over with Potter to Chelsea. Monaco like other Italian coaches was part of De Zerbi's staff previously.
In Nov '22 Mike Cave became assistant technical director under David Weir. He had responsibility for recruitment, analysis, medical & welfare for men & women. Meanwhile Paul Winstanley left BHA recruitment to join Chelsea. In the '23 New Year's honours list Paul Barber was awarded an OBE for services to football. During Feb '23 Sam Jewell was promoted to head of recruitment from being the club's emerging talent manager since 2019. In Feb '24 he was also poached by Chelsea.
During late June '23 ex-Albion C'ship full back Inigo Calderon returned to the club as U18 head coach. It was a move designed to benefit both the Academy set-up and the old new employee.
In May '24 Doctors, Professor Florian Pfab and Gary Walker were appointed as heads of medicine and performance respectively.
* * * * *
It was all change again in June '24 when Fabian Hurzeler became head coach after the exit of De Zerbi. Andrew Crofts retained the first team coach status, while Jack Stern was still 1sts goalkeeping coach. In pre-season Jonas Scheuermann became assistant head-coach. His background was as asst at Augsburg. Marco Knoop re-joined Hurzeler as gk coach from St Pauli. Max Lesser from Ajax took on the tactical analyst role. At start of the season Andrew Crofts became assistant head coach and also joined the Wales coaching staff as assistant. In Sept '24 ex-Albion striker Sam Baldock joined Gordon Greer's pathway development group as a coach. In Oct '24 ex-Albion Bobby Zamora was given a role as consultant for strikers. In Nov '24 Danil Niedzkowski was enrolled as assistant coaxh from start of '25.

* * * * *

Goalkeepers

Falmer Years: 2011 to 2025 (seasons 1-14) Championship & Premier League.
Head GK Coach: Marco Knoop . 1st team: Jack Stern . previously Ricard Segarra, Ben Roberts.
In Sept '21 ex-Albion custodian Casper Ankergren returned to Denmark from BHA's Lancing TC to coach keepers.
Analyst: Matt Parker . Academy: Sal Bibbo . U18 Owen Fisher.
* * * * *

23 to 25 (seasons 13-14) Premier League: Steele, Verbruggen, McGill
24/25 - no.1 Verbruggen played at Euro 24. Steele was 2nd choice. Rushworth (Hull) again went out on loan. McGill (MK Dons), Scherpen (S Graz) & Beadle (Sheff Wed) also went out on loan. Cahill & Fisher signed a 1yr deal. Reid left in '24 close season. Lorenz Ferdinand stepped up to PL2.
23/24 - Steele rotated PL gloves with Bart Verbruggen - signed from Ajax for 16m. Tom McGill was 3rd keeper. Scherpen (Sturm Graz), Rushworth (Swansea) & Beadle (Oxford) went out on loan. Sanchez was sold (Chelsea 25m) in pre-season. Talley & Bull were released. Rushworth was in Eng U21 Euro winners squad.
20 to 23 (seasons 10-12) Premier League: Sanchez, Steele, (Scherpen), {Ryan}, {Walton}.
22/23 - Sanchez was initially 1st 11 pick, Steele as back up. Then after halfway thru campaign it was vice versa. McGill figured 3rd in PL keepers group. Scherpen was loaned to Arnhem, Rushworth went on loan to Lincoln and Talley over to Ireland for a spell. Beadle was PL2 main choice, before a loan to Crewe, then Cahill took gloves to Bognor. Desbois left the club in '22 close season. Gk coach Ben Roberts left for Chelsea in Sept '22. Ricard Segarra replaced him. Sanchez was at World Cup '22 in Dec.
21/22 - In Sept '21 ex-Albion custodian Casper Ankergren returned to Denmark from BHA's Lancing TC to coach keepers.
Sanchez was undisputed no.1 and Steele on bench & in EFL Cup. Ryan left prior to start of the campaign, so 'big' Kjell Scherpen signed from Ajax - debut in FAC3 and on loan in Belgium Jan '22. Walton got borrowed then signed by Ipswich and left BHA in Jan '22. Young PoY '20 Carl Rushworth went from U23 custodian to Walsall on loan. Tom McGill stepped into wider goalies groups from PL2. The academy now had 6 keepers: Adam Desbois, Fynn Talley and Toby Bull, plus Hugo Fisher and Tommy Reid from U18s. In Jan '22 Killian Cahill & James Beadle joined this group. Desbois & Talley went out on loan to non league clubs.
20/21 - the two BHA ex-academy goalies were elevated into the Prem squad and it was Sanchez who got no.1 gloves. Ryan went on loan to Arsenal in Jan '21. Steele trod water as no.2 with EFL Cup & FAC3 apps. Button left for WBA in early September '20. Walton was injured pre-season but only became no.3 with merely FAC4/5 apps.
* * * * *
'17 to '20 (seasons 7-9) Premier League: Ryan, Steele, Button, (Maenpaa, Krul - left), (Walton, Sanchez - loaned out) .
19/20 - Ryan again played in all games. Button & Steele had very limited opportunities. Walton was loaned to Blackburn, while Sanchez got borrowed by Rochdale - each for the season. Keto returned to the U23s and got released in June.
18/19 - Maenpaa & Krul left in close season of 2018, due to lack of squad opportunities. Ryan continued as numero uno from last term, racking up 35 apps, bar early Cup rounds or when away with Australia - see below. Jason Steele & David Button came in from Sunderland & Fulham respectively to make numbers 2&3 up. Button deputised for Ryan briefly. Therefore Walton again played at Wigan for the second season running. Star U23 stopper Robert Sanchez went on loan as well to Forest Green. Hugo Keto joined the development group next but was also borrowed, in Ireland.
17/18 - veteran Casper Ankergren joined the coaching staff under ex-Albion custodian Ben Roberts. While Championship stalwart David Stockdale signed for Birmingham prior to the Prem campaign. Australia international team no.1 Maty Ryan was signed as his replacement during the close season. Number two Niki Maenpaa also penned a new deal. Meanwhile Chris Walton went on loan to Wigan. Tim Krul came in on loan from Newcastle before the August window closed - later got a 1yr deal. Ryan made all 38 PL apps and later rounds of FA Cup too.
* * * * *
'14 to '17 (seasons 4-6) Championship; Stockdale, Maenpaa, (Walton), Ankergren
15/16 - young Chris Walton went on loan to Bury for 15-16 & Luton 16-17. David Stockdale and Finnish goalie Niki Maenpaa were left to dispute the gloves - exclusively for the former Prem custodian, with the Finn on the bench.
14/15 - Casper Ankergren was the only senior keeper retained from the first three seasons at the Amex. But he played only a bit part in subsequent years. David Stockdale from Fulham had been recruited as no.1, two weeks before opening day of the '14/15 campaign. When he was injured, U19 custodian Chris Walton deputised and showed maturity beyond his young age. Bizarrely, Ali Al-Habsi came in from Wigan on loan for a month but merely played once that Nov.
* * * * *
'11 to '14 (seasons 1-3) Championship; Brezovan, Kuszczak, Ankergren
12/13 - In the close season Tomasz Kuszczak signed a 2y deal. He became first choice throughout that term & '13/14. But at end of those 2 campaigns he & Brezovan were both released.
11/12 - on day1 GP played Casper Ankergren again (once at Leeds) as no.1. He'd done good for BHA's previous season in Lg1 with clean sheets. Earlier first choice Peter Brezovan (originally via Swindon) was on the bench as reserve keeper. Third goalie Michael Poke (initially from So'ton) was back-up to the union. Poke and youngster Mitch Walker from Dev Squad (who did a spell on loan) turned out in reserves and for BHA seconds in the Sussex Senior Cup competition. Before end of October '11, Poyet made a short loan move for veteran Steve Harper from Newcastle. Brezovan regained the gloves at end of 2011, while Poke went on loan to Bristol Rovers. Poyet next signed David Gonzales (ex-Man City) for 2012 as late competition for the gk jersey. But both these back-up keepers, plus youngster Walker, were released at end of '11/12 campaign.
* * * * *

Hostings & Prem shirt no.s

CLUBS @ the Amex: from seasons 1-6 C'ship, 7-14 Prem.
Arsenal 7-14, Aston Villa 6 9-14, Barnsley 1-3 6, Birmingham 1-6, Blackburn 2-6, Blackpool 1-4, Bolton 2-5, B'mouth 3-4 7-9 12-14, Brentford 4-6 11-14, Bristol City 1-2 5-6, Burnley 1-3 5 7-11 13, Burton 6, Cardiff 1-2 4-6 8, Charlton 2-5, Chelsea 7-14, Coventry 1, C Palace 1-2 7-14, Derby 1-6, Doncaster 1 3, Everton 7-14, Fulham 4-6 8 10 12-14, Huddersfield 2-8, Hull 1-2 5, Ipswich 1-6 14, Leeds 1-6 10-12, Leicester 1-3 7-12 14, Liverpool 7-14, Luton 13, Man City 7-14, Man Utd 7-14, Middlesbro 1-5, Millwall 1-4, MK Dons 5, Newcastle 6-14, Norwich 4 6 9 11, Nott'm Forest 1-6 12-14, Peterbro 1-2, Portsmouth 1, Preston 5-6, QPR 3 5-6, Reading 1 3-6, Rotherham 4-6, Sheff Utd 9-10 13, Sheff Wed 2-6, So'ton 1 7-12 14, Spurs 7-14, Stoke 7, Swansea 7, Watford 1-4 7-9 11, West Brom 7 10, West Ham 1 7-14, Wigan 3-4 6, Wolves 2 4-6 8-14, Yeovil 3

see also: AMEX Prem managers records in CLUBS tab at top and also STATS PLUS via main Stats tab.
* * * * *

Prem shirt no.s from 2017: at time of signing or altered later
1 Ryan (gk) Sanchez (gk) Verbruggen (gk) . 2 Bruno Lamptey . 3 Bong White Cucurella Julio
4 Huenemier Webster . 5 Dunk . 6 Stephens Colwill Milner
7 Connolly March . 8 Skalak Bissouma Mwepu Gruda . 9 Baldock Maupay Pedro
10 Hemed Mac Allister Enciso . 11 Knckeart Trossard Gilmour . 12 Maenpaa (gk) Keto (gk)
13 Gross . 14 Balogun Lallana Rutter . 15 Murphy Moder
16 Ulloa Jahanbakhsh Sarmiento Scherpen (gk) . 17 Murray Alzate Minteh . 18 Goldson Mooy Welbeck
19 Izquierdo Barco . 20 Baleba . 21 Andone Schelotto Undav
22 Tau Montoya Mitoma . 23 Rosenier Steele (gk) . 24 Propper Duffy Adingra
25 Kayal Caicedo . 26 Krul Clarke Kadra Ayari . 27 Button Locadia Ostigaard Wieffer
28 Roberts Ferguson . 29 Suttner Zeqiri van Hecke . 30 Bernardo Richards Estupinan
31 Walton (gk) Fati Sima . 32 Peupion . 33 Burn Cozier-Duberry O'Riley
34 Ince Veltman . 35 Barclay Baluta Dahood . 36 Towell Moran
37 Brown Weir . 38 Mateju McGill (gk) Cahill (gk) . 39 Ahannach Rushworh (gk)
40 Buonanotte Yalcouye . 41 Sanders Spong Hinshelwood . 42 Gyokeres Offiah
43 Tilley Turns Samuels . 44 Tolaj Gwargis McConville . 45 Hinchy
46 Tsoungi Leonard Ifill . 47 Furlong Baker-Boaitey . 48 Dicker Packham Chouchane
49 Molumby Yapi . 50 Everitt Cochrane Jackson . 51 A Davies O'Mahony
52 J Davies Wilson Duffus . 53 O'Hora Barrington . 54 Kerr Mullins . 55 Mandroiu

first Prem team line up in August 2017
1 Ryan (gk) 2 Bruno 22 Duffy 5 Dunk 29 Suttner 20 March (11 Knockaert) 6 Stephens 24 Propper
37 Brown (15 Murphy) 13 Gross 10 Hemed (17 Murray)

PREM outs & past players '17 to '25

Falmer years: 2017 to 2025 . Covering Prem seasons 7-14 (1st to 8th terms) . . U23/21 PL2 & U18 squads.

in 22 - Billy GILMOUR - out 24 (Prem 11)
Last minute deadline day signing on 4yr deal to '26 for 8m from Chelsea. Once a Scots wonder kid (born '01 Irvine) but on fringes of Blues squad. Made a move further south intending to get game time. Scotland international. Limited apps '23. Bit the bullet and stepped up well. Injury cut short season. Bought by Napoli for 16m in Aug '24. 22/23 - big things expected. In Scots squad. EFLC R3/4 apps. At Dubai winter training camp during WC finals. On loan in Jan? Part of small support squad. Coach will take a view for '23. FAC3/4 sub apps. Scotland call up. Stuck on bench - not ideal. MoM late Apr. 7 (7) PL apps 1Y 0gls. 23/24 - aged 22 pre-season. Should get a chance to kick on. In summer US squad. Scotland squad. 8 Europa Lg apps. EFL Cup R3 sub app. FAC3/4 apps. Prem regular. Straight red card - missed 3 apps. Injured in Scots squad. Midfield stalwart. Doesn't score goals. Euro 24 Scots squad. 24+6 PL apps, 0gls 7Y 1R. 24/25 - transfer speculation. Injured but in July Japan squad, no apps. Club stated he stays. Third season & needs to find the net. Transferred to Napoli on Aug deadline day. 1+1 PL apps, 0gls . Total = 32+14 Prem apps 0gls.
in 23 - Mahmoud DAHOUD - out 24 (Prem 35)
Signed a 4yr contract to '27 on a free from Borussia Dortmund in close season. 27yo ('96 Amuda) Syrian born midfielder had over 140 apps, many Germany U21 & 2 senior apps. Experience in Europe too. Limited apps. Went off radar and ool to Stuttgart Jan '24. Transferred to Frankfurt Aug '24. 23/24 - aged 27 pre-season. Ready to dig in at Lancing. In summer US squad. Started day1. EFL Cup R3 app. 4 Europa Lg apps. Doesn't score goals. Straight red! 3gm ban. Dropped from match-day squad. Joined Stuttgart on loan Jan '24. 6+3 PL apps, 0gls 1Y 1R. 24/25 - off radar in pre-season. second season & future in doubt. Transferred to Frankfurt on Aug deadline day. 0 PL apps, 0gls . Total = 6+3 Prem apps 0gls.
in 20 - Jensen Weir - out 24 (Prem 37)
Son of David Weir, BHA recruitment, technical & pathway manager. 18yo midfielder with limited EFL experience since 2019, obtained for 500k from Wigan on 3yr deal. Has U18 caps but also youth apps in Scotland. Future PL squad prospect. Borrowed by Cambridge Utd July '21, Morecambe July '22, Blackpool Aug '23, Port Vale Jan '24. Joined Wigan Aug '24. 20/21 - EFL Trophy apps. England U19 call up. PL2 apps. On bench PL. 21/22 - out on loan at Cambridge United, 15 L1 apps 1gl. Covid & injury issues but regular apps. England U20 squad. 22/23 - pre-season at Lancing. Went to Morecambe on loan 43 apps, 10 gls to May. 23/24 - at Lancing in pre-season, a move away? In summer US squad. Went to Blackpool on loan 16apps - recalled Jan. ool Port Vale. 24/25 - fifth season & where next? in Japan July friendlies. Trophy app. EFL Cup R2 sub app. Joined Wigan in Aug '24. Total = 0 Prem apps.
in 22 - Deniz UNDAV - out 24 (Prem 21)
Striker: 25yo (born '96 Achim) German divs hit-man signed at close of Jan '22 window for 7m from RUSG in Belgium. Got 4.5yr deal to '26. dob 19 Jul '96. Record of 52apps, 35gls. Stayed at Albion's feeder club for rest of season. Joined Prem 1st 11 squad in July '22. Limited opportunities to start '23. Went to Stuttgart for season. 21/22 - stayed at Albion's feeder club for rest of season. Took accolades in Belgium league, PoY, 12apps 8gls. Overall career total 231apps, 115gls. 22/23 - in Portugal summer camp on steep PL learning curve. Very late sub game one. EFLC R2/3/4 apps 1gl. Coming off bench. At Dubai winter training camp during WC finals, 2gls. Pushing to start in '23. FAC3/4/5/q-f & s-f apps 2gls. Disappointing season to run in. Struggling with levels. 6 (16) PL apps 4gls 2Y. 23/24 - aged 27 pre-season. Got competition to start. In summer US squad, 1gl. Went to Stuttgart on loan & scored goals. In Germany Euro '24 squad. 0+0 PL apps. PL career apps/gl = 4.4. transfer speculation & signed for Stuttgart in Aug '24 . Total = 6+16 Prem apps 5 gls.
in 17 - Pascal GROSS - out 24 (Prem 13)
First summer 3m signing for an initial season in the elite. 25yo (born '91 Mannheim) midfielder from German outfit Ingolstadt penned a 4yr deal as BHA prepared to enter the Prem. 200 apps in the Bundesliga top 2 divs. Considered a playmaker, with an impressive range of accurate passing. PL first choice on team-sheet as a no.10. 17/18 Player of the year. Injury hit second campaign apps. Prem regular thereafter over 6 terms to '23. Signed extended deal to '25. Key player in 1st 11 for any shape. In Germany squad Sept '23 & Jun '24. dob 15 Jun '91 Germany. 17/18 Prem - subbed in second match. Scored first two Premier League goals. Got good reviews game by game. 35 (3) PL apps, 7 gls = 5.4apps/gl. Voted Player of Year. 18/19 - had a lot to live up to. League Cup app. Long term injuries. Moved to right flank in 433. FA Cup sub. Not the influence as previously. Needed to hit the ground running in run-in. 24 (1) PL apps, 3 gls = 8.3 apps/gl. 19/20 - on right side in support of striker for 541 under Potter. EFL Cup r2 app. FA Cup app. Slipped down running order. 22 (7) PL apps, 2gls = 14.5 apps/gl. 20/21 - Competition for playmaker role. EFL Cup R2,3,4 apps, Capt of side - 100 apps. Coming off bench in PL then regained spot. Armband in lieu Dunk. FA Cup R3/4/5 apps. 27 (7) PL apps, 3 gls = 11.3 apps/gl, 3Y. 21/22 - will German efficiency prevail in the long run. EFL Cup R3 sub, R4 start (capt). Got covid. FAC3/4 apps. Picked for set piece delivery but not scoring much. 24 (5) PL apps 2gls 1Y . 22/23 - signed 2yr deal. Prem regular and versatile across pitch. Scoring goals again. EFLC R3/4 apps. More to offer box to box in '23. FAC3/4/5/q-f & s-f apps 1gl. Flexible over all of pitch, good anywhere. 200+ BHA apps. Signed to '25. Very good campaign from a top pro. 37 apps 9gls 5Y. 23/24 - aged 32 pre-season. Mr versatile sure to get games all over. In summer US squad. Called up by Germany, sub apps. 8 Europa Lg apps 1gl. Injured. 200+ Prem career apps. Capt in lieu Dunk. FAC3/4/5 apps. Assist king. First on teamsheet after Dunk. Voted PoY by fans & players. Great season. Passed B coaching licence. In German Euro '24 squad. 34+2 PL apps 4gls 6Y. Transfer speculation. Signed for Borussia Dortmund in Aug '24 . Total = 202+25 Prem apps 30 gls - club record.
in 19 - Marc Leonard - out 24
A Scot from Hearts who joined midfield ranks among many nationalities in BHA academy to produce a squad fit for purpose. Scotland U19. EFL Cup apps. On PL bench in covid crisis. Went to Northampton on loans in July '22 & '23. 19/20 - part of successful young pro group. FA Youth Cup apps. 20/21 - PL2 apps. EFL Trophy apps. Offered new deal. 21/22 - EFL Cup R2/3 apps. EFL Trophy apps. Scotland U21 squad. Signed a 1yr extension. PL on bench. FAC3 on bench. 22 PL2 apps 4gls. Scotland U21 Euro quali's squad in June. 22/23 - maybe out on loan? In pre-season training camp to Spain. Went to Northampton on loan 45 apps, 1 gl to May. 23/24 - at Lancing in pre-season, ool again? Signed to '25. Joined Northampton for season. Signed for Birmingham in July '24. Total = 0 Prem apps.
in 22 - Kacper Kozlowski - out 24
18yo (born '03 Koszalin) wonderkid for 11m from Poland joined RUSG in lieu of development group in Sussex. Signed 4yr deal to '26 so plenty of time to make a mark in the Prem squad if progressing. Considered a useful prospect. Joined Prem 1st 11 squad in July '22. Borrowed by Arnhem for next 2 seasons. Got 40 apps 4gls for Pogon and was part of U19/21 Poland squads in '20 & '21, full caps in '21. Had earlier bad road accident in Jan '20. 21/22 - Went to RUSG for development, merely 9 lg apps. Candidate on Golden Boy list. 22/23 - rejoined BHA in close season. Started in PL2. Went to Arnhem for campaign, 22 apps, 2 gls to March. In Poland pre-finals '22 WC squad & '23 Euro quali's. 23/24 - aged 19 pre-season. ool at Arnhem again. Joined Gaziantep in July '24.
in 20 - Adam LALLANA - out 24 (Prem 14)
Free transfer from Liverpool after restarted Prem season finished in July '20. England international and experience as midfielder at top of pyramid and levels below (born '88 St Albans). Knows the game in & out and interested in coaching too. Bought into Albion ambitions. Class act if match fit and very vocal. Long term injury '23. Signed to '24. Plays for an hour. Left in May '24. Dob 10 May 88. Agreed a 3yr deal and potential to make a mark at lesser Prem level. Big name to sign for BHA and expectations high when seen against blue rather than red backdrops. 20/21 - could be a big fish in a smaller pond. Lasted less than 45 mins on debut. Injury worries initially. Got up to speed - class act and vocally influential. Had covid. More injuries - groin. Can't score for toffee. FAC5 app. 16 (13) PL apps, 1 gl. 21/22 - can't be expected to notch over thirty full apps can he? Capt in lieu of Dunk. Injury niggles. FAC4 app. Getting games but tougher these days within an inexperienced team. 18 (6) PL apps 0gls 4Y. 22/23 - expected to be on bench a lot . Injured calf. Assisting coaches. Given an hour/app by RdZ. Scored a rare goal. Injured yet again. EFL Cup R4 app. Anticipated to be selective in list of crowded fixtures for '23. FAC3 app 1gl. Long term injury in mid-season. Signed 1yr deal into '24. At end of career. 12 (4) apps 2gls. 23/24 - aged 35 pre-season. Fitness an issue. In summer US squad. Injury doubts. In Eng U21s coaches. EFL Cup R3 sub app. 2 Europa Lg apps. FAC3/4 apps. Can play for an hour in games. Passed B coaching licence. Left club in May - joined So'ton. 12+12 PL apps 1Y . Total = 58+35 Prem apps 3 gls.
In 17 - Steven ALZATE - out 24 (Prem 17)
18yo (born '98 Camden) versatile def/attacker got a 3yr deal when joining for 100k from Orient to play in the U23 (PL2 Div2) league. Part of team promoted to Div1. 18/19 - On loan to Swindon until Jan1 but returned injured. Signed extra 3yr deal under Hughton. Underwent rehab. In 7s squad for HK Asia tournament. 19/20 Prem - EFL Cup r2 app. Trophy team. PL debut & MoM under Potter. Signed extended contract. Picked for Columbia U23 group but withdrew injured. Later elevated to national senior squad. FA Cup app. 12 (7) PL apps, 0 gls. No later apps and under wraps after lockdown as required groin procedure. 20/21 - deal to 2024. Pathway ahead if he can step up. Got a cent-mf spot. Went to Columbia for internationals. Off the boil and went sick. FAC R4/5 apps. 10 (5) PL apps, 1 gl, 2Y. 21/22 - lost his way and needs to find improvement. EFL Cup R2/3 apps. Injury required surgery. FAC3 app, FAC4 on bench. In Col'm'b WCq squad. Coming off bench mostly. 5 (4) PL apps 0gls . 22/23 - can he raise his game? Aborted loan to West Brom. EFLC R2 app, 1gl. 0 PL apps. Went on loan to Leige 22 apps, 2 gls to March. In Colombia squad. 23/24 - aged 24 pre-season. In wider group at Lancing. In summer US squad. Borrowed again by Standard Liege, 47 total apps. 0+0 PL apps. Left club in June '24 . Total = 27+16 Prem apps 1gl.
in 23 - Brody Peart - out 24 (U21s)
Summer signing of forward from Basingstoke to hook up with development group. Dob 26 Aug '05. 23/24 - EFL Trophy app. 2 Sussex Cup apps, 1gl. International Cup sub app. PL Cup app. Released June '24. Went to Wycombe.
In 21 - Jack Hinchy - out 24 (U21 45)
Youngster arrived from Stockport to join developmet group after showing talent with national league outfit. Local BHA coaching connexions will now help with his progression. Sussex Senior Cup winner '22. Progress to first team squad. 21/22 - EFL Trophy on bench. 11 PL2 apps. Sussex Cup apps. Sussex Senior Cup winner. 22/23 - gotta get head down and go for it. Started sub in PL2 & Cup tournament team. EFLC R2 sub. 2 PL2 apps to Dec. Sussex Cup app & s-f. International Cup app. 13 PL2 apps. 23/24 - what now? PL2 captain. 5 EFL Trophy & q-f apps. 2 International Cup apps. 2 Sussex Cup apps as capt. In Europa Lg squad. 2 PL Cup apps. FAC3 sub app. Went ool to Shrewsbury Jan '24. Released June '24. Signed for Notts County.
in 21 - Bailey Smith - out 24 (U21s)
Came in from Worthing during summer '21 additions. Steps up from Sussex local football. On loan to Worthing Sept '23. 21/22 - 21 apps 1gl. Sussex Cup sub apps. 22/23 - Sussex Shield winner. Youth Cup apps. 10 apps, 4gls to Dec. Sussex Cup sub app. 20 apps, 5gls. Part of U21 squad in Hong Kong tournament. 23/24 - borrowed by Worthing to Jan '24. EFL Trophy & q-f sub apps. International Cup app. 2 PL Cup sub apps. 6 apps. Released June '24.
in 21 - Tommy Reid - out 24 (U21s)
English kid born to wear keepers gloves. Start as a pro at U18s. Dob 18 Jan '05. Went on work experience at Burgess Hill & Worthing. Eng U18. 21/22 - 3 apps. Youth Cup app. 22/23 - Sussex Shield & Cup tournament on bench. Youth Cup apps. 18 apps. 23/24 - Sussex Cup app. England U19 squad. PL Cup app. Released June '24.
in 20 - Leigh Kavanagh - out 24 (52 U21s)
Irish defender at Bray came to get up to speed in academy and add to skill sets. Borrowed by Derby in '22. Signed to '24 + 1yr option. Dob 27 Dec '03. 21/22 - 19 apps. Sussex Cup apps & sub. Youth Cup on bench. 22/23 - In pre-season training camp to Spain. Started in Cup tournament team. Borrowed by Derby U21s in '22. PL Cup app. Sussex Cup apps & s-f. International Cup app. 13 PL2 apps. Signed 1yr deal. 23/24 - expected to step up. 3 EFL Trophy & q-f apps. 3 International Cup apps 1gl. Sussex Cup app. In Europa Lg squad. On PL bench. 2 PL Cup apps. 14 PL2 apps. Released June '24. Went to Bohemians.
in 22 - Jaydon Fuller - out 24 (U18)
fwd: '22 academy intake. dob 13 Dec '05. From Welsh family roots. 22/23 - 8 apps. Youth Cup squad. 23/24 - 4 apps 1gl. Left July '24.
in 23 - Ansu Fati - out 24 (Prem 31)
Summer deadline day signing borrowed from Barcelona. 20yo (born Bissau '02) came thru their academy since aged 10. Has La Liga experience, Champ's Lg, Spain apps and was at World Cup in '22. Got class, talent and huge potential. Injured and off radar 3 months. Limited to sub apps. Dob 31 Oct '02. 23/24 - aged 20 at start of season. To be incorporated as addition to 1st 11 squad during 4 competitions. 6 Europa Lg apps 2gls. EFL Cup R3 app. Prem impact sub. Spain squad. Prem start Nov. Hamstring injury - out 3 months. FAC5 app. Disappointing offerings and under par. PL career apps/gl = 9.5 . Total = 3+16 PL apps 2gls 2Y.
* * * * *
in 20 - Andi ZEQIRI - out 23 (Prem)
Gotten in Oct1 from Lausanne (born '99) on a 4yr contact to '24 for 4m. Has Swiss U21 caps. Experience at Juve academy before playing in home country leagues. Striker who scores goals and a Prem prospect. On fringes of squad via bench. Included for Swiss provisional Euros squad. Went to Augsburg in Aug '21 for more local game time. Rejoined Prem 1st 11 squad in July '22. On loan at Basel '23. 20/21 - not a likely starter but getting up to squad speed. Debut as sub. FA Cup R3/4/5 apps. In Swiss U21 squad and provisional Euros 29 before cut. 0 (9) PL apps, 0 gls. 21/22 - ways to go and maybe convert to wingback or via level2. EFL Cup app. Went to Augsberg, 19 lg apps 2gls. Able to visit family & friends. In Swiss squad. 22/23 - rejoined in close season, something to prove this term. Went to Basle on loan 36 apps, 14 gls to March. Carried off. In Swiss pre-finals WC squad. In Swiss squad June. 23/24 - aged 24 pre-season. In wider pre-season squad. Joined Genk in Sept '23. 0+0 PL apps . Total = 0 (9) Prem apps 0 gls.
in 19 - James Furlong - out 23
One of several Irish imports in a steady flow thru the academy and develoment groups. A defender set to progress. EFL Cup bench. Sussex Senior Cup winner '22. On loan in Scotland '23. 20/21 - EFL Trophy apps & on bench. PL2 apps. 21/22 - EFL Trophy apps. EFL Cup on bench. Regular PL2 games. RoI U20 squad. Sussex Senior Cup winner. 24 U23 apps. Signed 1yr deal. 22/23 - needs to step up. In pre-season training camp to Spain. Started in PL2. EFLC R2 sub. EFL Trophy apps. International Cup apps. On PL bench. PL Cup gp apps. At Dubai winter training camp during WC finals. 10 PL2 apps to Dec. Went to Motherwell in SPL on loan in Feb '23, 7 apps to March. Ireland U21 call up. Signed to '25. 23/24 - ool again? summer deadline day transfer to Hull.
in 21 - Moises CAICEDO - out 23 (Prem 25)
Youngster for 5m from Ecuador with potential to go a long way, signed in winter window until '25. 19yo (born '01 Santo Domingo) midfielder has caps for home country after coming thru youth ranks for club. May be fast tracked during summer '21. In Ecuador squad for Copa America & WCqs. Next off to Beerschot in Belgium. Recalled Jan '22. Prem 1st 11 now. At World Cup '22. Prem regular. Signed to '27. Deal with Chelsea for 115m beat Liverpool for 111m in Aug '23. Record: Dob 2 Nov 01. Young talent already got apps for country. Product of Independiente de Valle youth ranks but considered good enough for big boys games. Became a transfer mission for Dan Ashworth to complete against all international odds. 20/21 - on bench FAC5 and occasional PL squad sub. 0 PL apps. In Ecuador squad for Copa America. Returned injured. 21/22 - only way is up, on all levels. EFL Cup app. Went out to Belgium club for season. Called up by Ecuador for WC quals but illness. Recalled to BHA Jan '22. FAC4 sub. April PL debut. Classy displays. International squad in June. 8 PL apps 1gl 2Y. 22/23 - going places on a steep learning curve. Liverpool supposedly took a look, also Chelsea (Potter) again at later Jan window. Prem regular and improving. Valued at big bucks. EFLC R3/4 apps. In Equador WC squad, 3 apps 1gl. Attracted yet more attention. Teamsheet shoe-in for '23. FAC3/5/q-f & s-f apps 1Y. Arsenal 60m bid rejected in window. Dropped briefly end of Jan. Signed deal to '27. Ecuador call up. Had a big, big season. Voted PoY twice by fans & players. 34 (3) PL apps 1gl 10Y ban . 23/24 - aged 21 pre-season. To be sold and 60,70,80,100m bids by Cheslea. In summer US squad. Didn't play Amex friendly. 0+0 PL apps. Deal from Chelsea 115m beat Liverpool for 111m . Total = 42+3 Prem apps 2gls.
in 20 - Michal KARBOWNIK - out 23
Polish 19yo (born '03 Radom) signed from Legia Warsaw at Oct deadline on a 4yr deal to '24 for 5m. Defender with experience from U19 Poland squad. Back to Legia on loan. Recalled Jan '21. Development on fringes of PL squad. Went on loan at Olympiacos Aug '21. Then Dusseldorf Aug '22. Dob 13 Mar 03. 20/21 - stayed in Poland on loan. Recalled in Jan. Has national squad credentials. Included in rebuilding of PL group as part of club playing personnel overhaul. On bench. FAC5 tie debut start. In Poland WC quali's squad. 0 PL apps. 21/22 - lots to prove if he can jump from eastern Europe football to top English game. EFL Cup app. Went off to Greece for the season. Injury issues, 7/12 A/B apps. 22/23 - rejoined BHA in close season, still plenty of questions to be answered. Went to F Dusseldorf on loan 18 apps, 1 gl to March. In Poland pre-finals '22 WC squad & '23 Euro quali's. 23/24 - aged 20 pre-season. At Lancing in pre-season. Sold to Hertha Berlin in Aug '23 . Total = 0 Prem apps.
in 15 - Robert SANCHEZ - out 23 (Prem 1)
Keeper; 17yo moved from Levante, Spain (born '97 Cartagena) and came thru U23 PL2 div1 & div2 sides to reach fringes of PL squad. On loan to Forest Green '18 & Rochdale '19. Made PL debut between sticks in late 2020. Became Prem no.1 gloves. Included for Spain's Euros & WC squads in '21 and debut. At World Cup '22. On PL bench '23. Signed to '25. Dob 18 Nov 97. 17/18 - custodian in PL2 promo winning team in div2. 18/19 - loaned to Forest green for first half of season. Recalled to bolster keeper numbers. On bench in FA Cup R4/5. PL2 div1 & Cup apps. 19/20 - borrowed by Rochdale for campaign. 20/21 - Signed new deal to 2023. EFL Cup on bench. PL2 apps. PL debut, did ok but dropped for next game. Got gloves again in Dec '20. On bench FA Cup3/4. No.1 now. Signed deal to 2025. Called up to Spain Euros squad. PoY candidate. 27 PL apps, 1Y. 21/22 - bucket list is no sand castle of costa dreams. In Spain WC qual & Nat Lg squad & debut. Competent handler. Red card! Good stopper, kicks & crosses need work. FAC3 on bench, FAC4 app . Form slacked off - but no competiton for gloves! No.1 in Spain Int squad but pulled out. Supposed interest from Newcastle. Spain NL squad in June. 37 PL apps 2Y 1R .
22/23 - been easy so far, more to come? In Spanish WC squad, 0 apps. Noticable ricks but little or no threats at start of '23 to numero uno. Rested EFLC3 & FAC3/5. Dropped end of Feb. FAC q-f & s-f apps. Spain Euros squad. On PL bench. Took home leave. 23 PL apps 1Y. 23/24 - aged 25 pre-season. Transfer speculation, so what next? Sold to Chelsea for 25m . Total = 87 Prem apps.
in 17 - Aaron Connolly - out 23
Came via Mervue thru academy ranks (born y2k Oranmore) and noted for a very good goals to games ratio. Rep of Ireland U19 caps. Dob 28 Jan 00. 17/18 - Playing sub in League Cup tie under Hughton. Part of successful U23 side promoted to PL2 div1 & Sussex Senior Cup winners. 18/19 - came off bench late in LC tie. App in Republic of Ireland U19 squad. Prolific scorer in PL2 div1 & Checkatrade Trophy. Hamstring injury halted Jan window loan move to Luton temporarily, 2 L1 apps. Signed new deal to 2022. Voted PL2 PoY. In Ireland U21 squad for tournament in France. 19/20 Prem - scored away in EFL Cup R2&3 apps. PL debut from bench under Potter. 2 goals on first start. Elevated to RoI senior squad for Euro qualifiers - impact sub. PL apps in 442. Groin strain then hamstring tug. FA Cup app. Ankle surgery. 14 (10) PL apps, 3 gls = 8 apps/gl. Learning trade against top defenders. 20/21 - deal to 2024. Gotta find the net again. Called into RoI squad for Nat Lg & WC qual's. On a big learning curve. Hamstring tugs & cracked rib. Discipline issues. Injured in EU gp ql. Form tailed off. Off radar for Irish squad. 9 (8) PL apps, 2 gls = 8.5 apps/gl. 21/22 - questions and such as to where, when, why & how. Back in Irish WC qual squad. EFL Cup R3&4 apps, scored 2. Injury niggles, issues etc. Went on loan to Middlesbro in Jan '22, 18 C'ship apps 2gls. 1 (3) PL apps 0gls. 22/23 - went to Venezia for season, 5 apps to Dec. Under the radar, wonder what the future holds? In Irish squad. Went up to Hull on loan in Jan '23, 6 apps 2 gls - injured. 23/24 - aged 23 pre-season. Where now? Signed for Hull in Aug '23. Total = 24 (21) Prem apps 5 gls.
in 22 - Levi COLWILL - out 23 (Prem 6)
19yo joined on loan from Chelsea in Aug '22. England defender at youth level. Came thru Blues academy from a very young age. Signed 4yr deal at the Bridge. Went on loan at Huddersfield, 29 apps. Plays on left side of back 4/5. Hopes to kick on down south. 22/23 - straight on bench and late sub. EFLC R2/3/4 apps. England U21 squad. Injured. Full debut and impressed. At Dubai winter training camp during WC finals. Talented but as a loanee is between a rock and a bench place for '23. FAC3/q-f apps. Muscle prob, out weeks. Eng U21 call up. Good displays for run-in. Supposed 40m bid rejected. On Golden Boy award list. U21 Euros winner. Chelsea played hard-ball in negotiations. Total = 13 (4) Prem apps 1Y.
in 20 - Reda KHADRA - out 23
A product of Borussia Dortmund's youth system, the 19yo midfielder joined BHA academy for further development. Has Germany U18 cap. Fast tracked to Prem squad Jan '21 but injured. Prospects to progress at Blackburn on loan. Rejoined Prem 1st 11 squad in July '22. Went on loan at Sheff Utd then Birmingham '23. Signed 18 month deal. 20/21 - straight in Prem2 game and netted to boot. On bench FAC3/4. PL debut as sub. Got injured ankle in U23s. Signed up deal to '23. 0 (1) PL apps. 21/22 - borrowed by Blackburn, 27 C'ship apps 4gls, goals & assists. Germany U21 squad. 22/23 - rejoined for close season training. On loan at Sheff Utd 16 apps, 1 gl to end Dec. Recalled. In German U21 squad. Signed to '24. Borrowed by Birmingham from Jan, 10+ apps, 3 gls. 23/24 - at Lancing in pre-season. Speculation with Reims and transferred July '23 . Total = 0 (1) Prem apps 0 gls.
in 19 - Todd Miller - out 23 (U21s 52)
Bought from Colchester to be fast tracked thru academy grades as was given EFL debut & experience at 16yo. Sussex Senior Cup winner '22. Signed extra year. 19/20 - FA Youth Cup apps. 20/21 - in U18 squad. 21/22 - EFL Trophy apps & bench, gl. Sussex Cup apps, 2gls. Sussex Senior Cup winner. 19 PL2 apps, 4 gls. Signed 1yr deal. 22/23 - what next? In pre-season training camp to Spain. Started in PL2 & Cup tournament team. EFL Trophy apps, 2gls. International Cup apps, 2 gls. PL Cup gp apps. 9 PL2 apps, 2gls to Dec. Went out to Doncaster from Jan '23, 10 apps to May. Released in June '23. Signed for Bromley.
in 19 - Taylor Richards - out 23
Arrived via Man City academy during pre-season. 18yo midfielder had experience in PL2, EFL trophy, FA youth cup and Europe. England U17. Playmaker prospect who scores goals. Went to Doncaster ool for season. EFL Cup apps. PL debut Aug '21. Rejoined Prem 1st 11 squad in July '22. 19/20 - Regular U23 apps & gls. EFL Cup R3 app & in Trophy team. 20/21 - borrowed by Doncaster for the season. Good reports, 48 L1 apps 11 goals. 21/22 - got a 3yr deal, plus squad number. EFL Cup R2/3 apps. Prem debut. Borrowed by Birmingham from Jan '22, 6 C'ship apps. 22/23 - rejoined for close season training. On loan and linked to QPR move, 15 apps to May. Signed permanently for QPR . Total = 0 (2) Prem apps.
in 19 - Ben Wilson - out 23 (U21s)
Arrived from Northern Ireland and made an impact in the dev group match-day squads and Sussex Cup too. Injury curtailed progress. Signed for extra year. 19/20 - part of successful young pro group. Sussex Cup team. 20/21 - supersub in EFL Trophy apps. In N Ireland U19 squad. Offered new deal. 21/22 - part of big U23 group. Long term injury. 8 PL2 apps 1gl. Sussex cup apps 1gl. 22/23 - extended contract. Ways to go as yet. Sub in Cup tournament team. PL2 on bench. International Cup apps. EFL Trophy bench. PL Cup gp apps, 1gl. Sussex Cup apps & s-f, 1gl. 2 PL2 apps, 0gls to Dec. 4 PL2 apps. Released in June '23. Joined Cliftonville.
in 19 - Lorent Tolaj - out 23 (U21s ool)
Forward from Switzerland who stepped up in academy grades to compete in Youth Cup and Sussex Senior competition too. Went on loan to Cambridge & Salford. SS Cup winner '22. Signed for Aldershot in '23. 19/20 - part of successful young pro group. FA Youth Cup apps. Sussex Cup app. 20/21 - Swiss U21 wider group. Injury curtailed few PL2 apps. Offered new deal. 21/22 - included in ranks of club's big U23 group. EFL Trophy apps & sub, 2 gls. 15+ PL2 apps, 2gls. Sussex Cup app, 4 gls. 20yo borrowed by Cambridge Utd from close of Jan '22 window, only 4 L1 apps. Sussex Senior Cup winner - 2 gls. 22/23 - extended contract. On loan again? Sussex Shield winner. Started sub in PL2. Went on loan to Salford. 17 apps, 1 gl to Jan. Moved on to Dundee in Feb '23, 3 apps to March. Signed for Aldershot in July '23.
in 19 - Jack Spong - out 23 (41 U21s)
Elevated from youth teams in 2012 into U18 side then got a deal with U23 group. Midfielder with PL2 div1 apps already in the bag during 18/19 season of success among elite. Sussex Senior Cup winner '22. Joined Queens Park in '23. 18/19 - apps late in season at U23 div1 level. 19/20 - EFL Cup sub and in Trophy team. FA Youth Cup apps. Sussex Cup app. 20/21 - EFL Trophy apps. Offered new deal. 21/22 - part of big U23 group. EFL Trophy apps. 24 PL2 apps, 5 gls. Sussex Senior Cup winner (team capt). 22/23 - extended contract. Pathway to be decided. In pre-season training camp to Spain. Started in PL2. EFLC R2 app. EFL Trophy apps. International Cup apps - capt. PL Cup apps, 1gl. At Dubai winter training camp during WC finals. Progress on fringes expected in '23. 8 PL2 apps, 1gl to Dec. Went on loan to Crawley in Feb '23, 4 sub apps to May. Signed for Queens Park in Scotland during June '23.
in 19 - Matt Everitt - out 23 (50 U21s)
Another Irish lad hoping to make the grade. Plays in attack and learning his trade. U17 Cup winner. 20/21 - on bench in EFL Trophy. U18 captain. U17 Cup winner. 21/22 - part of large U23 development group. Long term injury, 1 U23 app. Sussex Cup q-f sub. 22/23 - signed 1yr deal and expected to move on up. Sussex Shield winner. Sub in Cup tournament team. EFL Trophy bench. International Cup apps. PL Cup gp apps. Sussex Cup apps & s-f. 2 PL2 apps to Dec. 8 PL2 apps. Released in June '23.
in 19 - Toby Bull - out 23 (65 U21s)
Keeper: homegrown handler got into U18s for 19/20 development teams. Further competitive experience at Worthing. BHA U17 Cup winner '21. 20/21 - borrowed by Worthing as reserve gloves. Curtailed by covid restrictions on fixtures. U17 Cup winner. 21/22 - expected to make progress between sticks. On loan at Merstham, 31 apps. Signed 1yr deal. 22/23 - on loan again? Shoulder injury restricted to 2 apps. Sussex Cup app. Released in June '23. Passed B coaching licence at Lancing in May '24.
in 22 - Billie Clark - out 23 (U21s)
Brighton boy and Albion fan joined U18/21 group from Whitehawk on east of city limits. Jan deadline signing hopes to step up westwards at Lancing. 21/22 - 10 apps 4 gls. 22/23 - Sussex Shield winner. Expected to progress, sub in PL2. PL Cup gp sub app, 1gl. Sussex Cup app. 2 PL2 apps. Released in June '23.
in 22 - Casey Shann - out 23 (U21s)
18yo left sided wingback came in at close of Jan window from Sutton Utd. Slovakia roots. Part of U21 wider group from '21 intake. 22/23 - stepped up to PL2. Sub in Cup tournament team. Sussex Cup apps & s-f. PL Cup app. 2 PL2 apps. Released in June '23.
in 21 - Jake Gee - out 23 (87 U18)
Midfielder from London signed from Fulham at 16yo as a first year pro for this new intake. 21/22 - 15 apps 2gls. Sussex Cup app & sub. Youth Cup on bench. 22/23 - Sussex Shield winner. Youth Cup app. 6 apps, 1gl. Released in June '23.
in 21 - Eliot Jenks - (U18 84)
Younger brother of Teddy from older '20 U23 team. Aiming to make similar progress from midfield. 21/22 - 22 apps 1gl. Sussex Cup app & sub. Youth Cup sub. 22/23 - in pecking order. International Cup sub app. PL Cup sub app. Youth Cup apps. 6 apps, 1gl to Dec. 9 apps 1gl. Released in June '23.
in 21 - Joe Winstanley - out 23 (88 U18)
Right-sided 16yo full back from Wigan, with England U15 experience, joined the Albion young pros group. 21/22 - 14 apps. Released in June '23.
in 20 - Sam Packham - out 23 (U21s 48)
With Seagulls since a kid and progressed thru ranks to turn pro. Versatile defender can also do midfield. Borrowed by Bohemians in Feb '22. 20/21 - EFL Trophy apps. PL2 apps. Offered new deal. 21/22 - plenty of competition in larger development group. EFL Trophy apps. Sussex Cup app. Went to Bohemians in Ireland on loan from Feb '22, 6 apps. 22/23 - signed 1yr deal but slightly unknown future. Started in Cup tournament team. EFL Trophy apps & sub. PL Cup gp apps. Sussex Cup apps & s-f. International Cup apps. 4 PL2 apps, 0gls to Dec. 12 PL2 apps. Released in June '23.
in 20 - Fynn Talley - out 23 (U21s)
Keeper: joined BHA academy from Arsenal in '17. Borrowed by Burgess Hill as keeper in '19. Signed for U23s in '20. On loan at Gosport then Cliftonville. 20/21 - EFL Trophy on bench. 21/22 - in U23s, what next? EFL Trophy on bench. Sussex Cup app & on bench. Joined Gosport in SL Prem on loan from Jan '22. Sussex Senior Cup final on bench. 22/23 - went on loan at Cliftonville in Northern Ireland. At Lancing Jan '23. Sussex Cup apps. International Cup app. 3 apps. Released in June '23. Joined Peterboro in July.
in 19 - Teddy Jenks - out 23
Came thru via youth teams to sign for U18s. Enough development to play cent m-f in EFL Cup R3 at Amex. Good prospects and on fringes of squad. Went to Aberdeen for season from July '21. Joined Prem 1st 11 squad in July '22. 19/20 - EFL Cup R3 app. Trophy team. FA Youth Cup apps. Sussex Cup app. Part of 30 man PL squad for Prem restart. 20/21 - contract extended to June 23. EFL Trophy app. EFL Cup played sub. PL2 apps. On bench FAC3 & PL. 21/22 - out on loan at Aberdeen, 18 SPL apps 2gls. Popular with club manager. 22/23 - pre-season at Lancing. Not north of the border again but Crawley on loan - 21 apps, 1 gl to March. Hamstring injury curtailed season. Signed for Forest Green in June '23. Total = 0 Prem apps.
in 19 - Haydon Roberts - out 23
Been on books since 2015 and progressed through U18 ranks to get U23 apps by 2018. More to come from defender. England U18. EFL Cup apps. Went to Rochdale for 20/21 season. EFL Cup apps. PL fringe. Joined Derby squad on loan in July '22. 19/20 - EFL Cup R3 scorer & MoM. Trophy team. U19 England squad. FA Youth Cup apps. Sussex Cup app. Scholar of the Season award. 20/21 - big year ahead to make more progress. EFL Trophy app. EFL Cup app & playing sub. England U19 call up. Contract to '23. Borrowed by Rochdale for season, 25 L1 apps. 21/22 - given PL squad number. EFL Cup R2/3/4 apps. EFL Trophy app. FAC3 on bench. In the match-day wilderness. 22/23 - borrowed by Derby for the season 40+ apps, 2 gls to May. FAC4 app. Joined Bristol City in July '23 . Total = 0 Prem apps.
in 19 - Antef Tsoungui - out 23 (46 U21s)
Belgian defender added to academy and also made the match day group for wider cup competitions. Belgium U18. EFL Cup app. Came back from long injury. 19/20 - part of successsful young pro group. FA Youth Cup apps. 20/21 - EFL Trophy apps & sub. PL2 apps. 21/22 - EFL Cup R2 app. PL2 apps. EFL Trophy app, red card. Sussex Cup app. Sustained long term injury. 13 PL2 apps. Signed to '23. 22/23 - big year ahead to progress. Started in PL2 & Cup tournament team. EFLC R2 bench. EFL Trophy apps. International Cup apps. PL Cup gp apps. At Dubai winter training camp during WC finals. 9 PL2 apps, 0gls to Dec. Went to Lommel in Belgium on loan in Feb '23, 5 apps to May. Signed for Feyenoord in June '23.
in 19 - Alexis MAC ALLISTER - out 23 (Prem 10)
Acquired from Argentinos Juniors in Jan 19 window and loaned back to them immediately. Product of their academy but a BHA future prospect as a goalscoring midfielder. Loaned to Boca Juniors for 19/20. Included in Argentina squad from U23s. Had Euro work permit for '20. Brought back to join PL squad. Match-day regular from bench. In Argy Olympic squad '21. 1st 11 Prem regular. At World Cup '22 and winner's medal. 19/20 - Joined PL squad at end of Jan 20 transfer window. Made 4 (5) PL apps, 0 gls in June restart. Useful prospect for future regular apps. 20/21 - big year ahead to raise his game to elite level. EFL Cup R2/3/4 apps plus first & second goals. Not making regular Prem starting eleven. Isolation from covid virus. FA Cup R3/4/5 apps. Disappointing year. Withdrew from Argentine U23 squad. 13 (8) PL apps, 1 gl, 1Y. In Argy Olympic squad. 21/22 - can he progress fast to regular first eleven? Winning goal on day1 from off bench. EFL Cup R3&4 apps. Brace at New Year. FAC3 sub. Not in Arg WC squad - +ve covid . Got a run in side, obvious ability to develop with experience. Rejoined WC quals squad. Internationals squad in June. 22 (11) PL apps 5gls 3Y . 22/23 - can go to next level. Signed to '25. Regular in holding role. In Argie WC squad and finals team, 6 apps 1gl. Good reports for displays. WC winner, a first for BHA, got two weeks vacation. Bound to attract interest in '23. FAC3/4/5/q-f & s-f apps 2gls. Constant media speculation as to future. Had a great campaign. 31 (4) PL apps 10gls 6Y ban. Joined Liverpool for 35m. Total = 71 (27) Prem apps 16 gls.
in 16 - Shane DUFFY - out 23 (Prem 24)
24yo Rep of Ireland International transferred from Blackburn at end of August transfer window. Biggest BHA signing then at 4 million. First choice c-d in PL and for home country where voted best player during 18/19. Injury set-back for 3rd PL season. Went on loan to Celtic 4th term - 25apps, 3gls. In Irish WC quals. Rejoined Prem squad but not first choice. Borrowed by Fulham in Aug '22, made permanent in Feb '23. 16/17 Championship - straight in and held the shirt with excellent displays. Broke bone in foot. 17/18 PL - picked with Dunk as first choice in homegrown c-d pairing. 5 yellows. Called up by home country. 37 PL apps, 0 gls. Rep of Ireland PoY. 18/19 - as good as he can be during peak years. Groin surgery. In RoI squad for Nations League, voted their best player. Contract extended to 2023. Most capped BHA international player. First PL team pick. FA Cup apps. Had to up it a bit more. PoY with majority support. In Euro 2020 qualifiers. 35 PL apps, 5 gls. 19/20 - expected to get goals at set pieces. Dropped in 343! EFL R3 app. Calf strain. Called up fit for RoI Euros qualifiers squad, highly regarded. Selected in some 442 PL line-ups. FA Cup app. Groin surgery. Second choice in c-d. 12 (7) PL apps, 1 gl. 20/21 - Speculation with West Ham, W Brom and also loan/swap deal to Celtic. Called into RoI squad for Nations League & WC quali's. Borrowed by Celtic for season - 25 apps tho not a regular pick at end. In Ireland squad June '21. 21/22 - still on books. In Irish WC qual squad. Getting it done in Prem ok. EFL Cup R4 app. Experienced defender, 100 PL apps total at end of Oct. Capt in lieu Dunk. Ban 1app. FAC3 app. Ankle prob. FAC4 on bench. Knows of limitations but gives best when picked. Great pro. Irish squad and later NL squad in June. 15 (3) PL apps 1gl 7Y . 22/23 - hoped he got games. Loaned to Fulham for season, 3 apps to Dec. Nations League squad. Joined Fulham at end of Jan window. Total = 99 (10) Prem apps 7 gls. Moved on to Norwich in June '23.
in 19 - Leandro TROSSARD - out 23 (Prem 11)
Big money signing (17m+) on 4yr deal from Genk during close season 2019. 24yo winger has Belgium U21 caps and Europa League experience. Proven scorer at lower level on continent. Prem regular. In Belgium Euros & WC quals squad. At World Cup '22. Transfer speculation Jan '23. Went to Arsenal for 21m in winter window. 19/20 - scored on PL debut in new set up under Potter. On verge of Belgium squad - but groin injury. Returned end Oct. Suffers like other Europeans from physicality of Prem opposition. Gradually got up to speed. 22 (9) PL apps, 5 gls = 6.2 apps/gl. 20/21 - capable of scoring and needs to increase tally substantially. In Belgium squad for Nat Lg & WC quali's - got goals. EFL Cup R4 played sub. Varied displays especially in away games. Used as false no.9 occasionally but usually in three up front. Groin strain. Don't track back much. FA Cup R3/4 sub apps. In Belgium Euros squad. 30 (5) PL apps, 5 gls = 7 apps/gl, 2Y. 21/22 - lots to admire but maybe more consistency. In Belgium WC qual & Nat Lg squads. Carried off - elbow. FAC3 sub. In & out of games and took on no.9 support role. International squad and later NL squad in June. 32 (2) PL apps 8gls 2Y . 22/23 - has become a first pick. Transfer gossip ongoing. Speculation with Monaco, AC Milan, Newcastle etc. Surely offered a new deal. In top form. Chelsea interest/offer. In Belgium WC squad, 1 (2) apps. Part of disappointing team results. EFL Cup R4 app. Showcase now is the Prem in '23. Dropped for FAC3 & PL. More talk in window, Spurs/Chelsea enquired. +1yr triggered by club. Joined Arsenal for 21m in Jan '23 window. 16 PL apps 7gls, hat-trick . Total 100 (15) Prem apps 25 gls.
* * * * *
in 21 - Enock MWEPU - out 22 (Prem 8)
First big deal (20m) of forthcoming 5th Prem season. Zambian 23yo midfielder from RB Saltzburg got a 4yr contract. Has Champions League experience and International game time to boot. Captained Zambia WC team. Injury problems. Illness abroad, diagnosed heart condition. Retired in Oct '22. Zambian has Internationals on CV. Went to Austria in 2017 and successfully climbed to the top of their league. But also liked a level playing field, so well suited to BHA geography. 21/22 - expected to move mountains. EFL Cup R2 app, R4 sub & gl. Zambia WC quals but out injured. FAC3 app. Hamstring tug & groin. Also illness. In International squad. Best goal award. Afcon squad in June. 12 (6) PL apps 2gls 2Y. 22/23 - got to prove full fitness. Illness in Mali, returned to club. Retired due to heart condition. 2 (4) apps . Total = 14 (10) Prem apps 2gls. Became BHA U9s coach.
in 20 - Zak Emmerson - out 22 (U21)
forward: homebred youngster gotten thru Oldham ranks to sign during July '20. 20/21 - U17 Cup winner. 21/22 - 22 apps 18 gls. England U18 call up. Sussex Cup sub & q-f app 1gl. Youth Cup app. 22/23 - In pre-season training camp to Spain. Started in Cup tournament team. Total 43apps 31gls. Joined Blackpool on Aug transfer deadline day.
in 18 - Florin Andone - out 22 (Prem 31)
Secured his striker services in close season for 5mill from La Coruna. Romanian international played in Spain for La Liga outfit Cordoba. Prolific scorer at those clubs. Competitve from subs bench but incurred injuries. Tough acclimatization. Went on loan to Galatasaray Sep '19. Long term knee injuries. Out for two seasons. Borrowed by Cadiz in Spain from Aug '21. 18/19 - pre-season injury. Bench regular. Belated PL debut as sub - scored. FA Cup apps. Retro Ban. Groin injury. Finding it tough in PL. 8 (15) PL apps, 3 gls = 7.6apps/gl. 19/20 - super-sub scored with first touch, first game. Sent off - straight red! only 1 of 3 served. 1 (2) PL apps, 1gl = 3apps/gl. Went of to Galatasaray for season 9 lg apps 2gls. In Romania Euros qualifiers squad. Serious knee injuries cut it all short. 20/21 - still on books but under the radar, doing easy ball work Dec '20. Back in training Apr '21. 0 PL apps. 21/22 - questions & answers needed but not very many. Went on loan to Cadiz in La Liga, 5 lg apps. 22/23 - out the door? Hung around until Aug deadline day then jumped ship. Enough said. Total = 9 (17) Prem apps 4 gls.
in 19 - Neal MAUPAY - out 22 (Prem 9)
Close to deadline day signing from Brentford for 22yo prolific goal-scoring striker at lev2. Cost about 20m, got a 4yr deal and steped up with '19 EFL PoY award to boot. French U21 caps and previous experience with St Etienne as well prior to crossing channel in 2017. Prem regular, scores goals and combative. Equalled Glenn Murray's goal record in Feb '22. 19/20 - scored on Prem debut in new set-up under Potter. First choice striker. Leading goalscorer. FA Cup app. Needs better service and a no.10 in support. 28 (7) PL apps, 10 gls = 3.5 apps/gl. 20/21 - will try to better scoring tally in second Prem experience. EFL Cup R4 played sub. Finding shooting boots. FA Cup R3/4 apps. Red card for backchat to Ref. 29 (4) PL apps, 8 gls = 4.1 apps/gl, 1R 1Y. 21/22 - can he make the jump from average to star quality? Goal on opening day. Supposed interest from Everton but no go. Shooting boots on to bring early ave down = 2.3 ap/gl. EFL Cup R4 sub. Got covid. FAC3/4 apps 1gl . Equalled club previous Prem leading striker's goals in Feb. Team has to play to his strengths. Not a hold up centre froward. Lost form. 25 (8) PL apps 8 gls 6Y. 22/23 - is attitude the real problem? Interest from Italy among others. Moved to Everton at end of August window. 0 PL apps . Total = 82 (19) Prem apps 26 gls.
in 19 - Matt CLARKE - out 22 (Prem 26)
First summer signing of new boss Graham Potter's reign, spending 3.5mill. Had EFL experience as young centre back with Pompey in L1. Signed a 4yr contract. Prospect to aim for the first team match-day squad. Went to Derby for back to back seasons - 44apps. On to West Brom in third term from July '21. Joined Prem 1st 11 squad in July '22. 19/20 - joined Derby on long loan, extended into seasons late finish - PoY. 20/21 - went back to Rams for season and regular apps. 21/22 - borrowed by West Brom for their return to C'ship level. 33 apps 1gl. Voted Baggies PoY. 22/23 - in Portugal summer camp, questions to be answered. Started in PL2. Linked to Middlesbro and signed late in Aug window. Total = 0 Prem apps.
in 21 - Marc CUCURELLA - out 22 (Prem 3)
Aug deadline day signing to '26 for 15m from Getafe. 23yo left-sided wingback with experience in La Liga and Spain caps at levels to U21. Straight onto pitch and looked the part with a run of apps. In Olympic squad. Hopes to hit the ground running if can cope with the cold. 21/22 - Prem debut in Sept. Looked useful. EFL Cup R4 sub. FAC3 sub, FAC4 app. Prem regular lb - can also do left of back three. Maybe best as wingback with pukka left of 3 c-d covering. Consistent Prem displays. Opened account in May. PoY award & players pick too. 35 PL apps 1gl 5Y. Man City took a serious look. Transfer request in pre-season. Then Chelsea offer of 60m accepted. Total = 35 Prem apps 1 gl.
in 20 - Zak Sturge - out 22 (U18 76)
English youngster joined Albion academy U18 group in '20. Plays full back and called into England U18 squad in '21. Sussex Senior Cup winner '22. Left for Chelsea in July '22.
in 18 - Leo Ostigard - out 22
Norwegian U19 defender arrived on 3yr deal prior to Aug k-o. Played at senior level for Molde in homeland. In Norway U21 squad. 18/19 - part of U23 div1 3rd placed side. FA Cup r5 on bench. At U20 World Cup. 19/20 - went on loan to Germany league two side, 28 lg apps 1gl. U21 Norway Euro qualifiers squad. 20/21 - Norway Nations League group. Went to Coventry for season, 39 apps 2gls. 21/22 - signed 1yr deal and went on loan to Stoke. Stop start 13 C'ship apps 1gl. Moved on to Genoa in Jan '22, 15 Serie A apps. Norway squad 5 apps. Transferred to Napoli in July '22. Total = 0 Prem apps.
in 18 - Alex Cochrane - out 22 (50)
Local lad came thru academy. Made multi apps for U18s from '16 and graduated to U23 side. Debut in 17/18 for div2 side. 18/19 - div1 apps & checkatrade trophy app. Played at left back latest. In 7s squad for HK Asia tournament. 19/20 - PL2 team captain. Extended 2yr Contract. EFL Cup R3 app. Trophy team. Called up to England U20s. On bench in FA Cup. Sussex Cup app. Added to PL 30 man squad when Prem restarted during spring/summer Covid-19 pandemic. Got on bench. 20/21 - big year ahead to make progress. EFL Trophy app. EFL Cup on bench. EFL Cup playing sub. Borrowed by RUSG in Belgium owned by Tony Bloom, 7 apps. '21 - Rehab from ankle surgery. Signed a year deal. 21/22 - out on loan at Hearts, 32 SPL apps 2gls. Played in several positions. Scottish cup final. Extended contract. Joined Hearts permanently in June '22.
in 18 - Yves BISSOUMA - out 22 (Prem 8)
Pre-season signing got a 5yr deal. Mali midfielder played for Lille and stepped up to the Prem. French speaker but boots did the talking. FA Cup apps. On steep learning curve. Good reviews to be a top Prem player. Mali caps at Afcon. Transfer agreed to Spurs in June '22. 18/19 - took the jump to Prem apps under Hughton as part of progress. League Cup app. In Mali Africa Cup group. Hip injury. FA Cup s-f app but suspended for q-f. PL bench regular with prospects. Short run in side. 13 (11) PL apps, 0 gls. Got to go on to greater heights. Missed Africa Cup thru shoulder surgery. 19/20 - recovery and missed full training pre-season. Fit by end Sept. Hoped to kick on under Potter after making bench but down pecking order. FA Cup app. Made late breakthrough and would kick on; 15 (7) PL apps, 1gl. 20/21 - up to speed and maintaining form. Straight red. First pick for a cent-mf place. 5 yellows. FA Cup R3/4/5 apps - best goal of R4. PoY candidate. 35 (1) PL apps, 1 gl, 1R 7Y. 21/22 - big clubs took a long look but no go. Hit the ground running and class act. EFL Cup R4 sub. Ban 1 app. Called up for Africa Cup in Mali squad. Valued at 50m in Jan window, interest from Newcastle & Villa. FAC4 app, 1gl . Dip in form and contract concerns. In Mali WC qual squad. 2 match suspension. Afcon squad in June. 25 (1) PL apps 1gls 10Y. Apparently interest from Monaco. Agreed 25m transfer to Spurs. Total = 88 (20) Prem apps 3 gls.
in 19 - Tudor-Cristian Baluta - out 22 (35)
19yo Midfielder signed for U23s at end of Jan '19 window but went back to parent club in Romania. U19, U21 & full caps, also an app in Nations League. Versatile in defensive roles. 19/20 Prem - named in larger 27 man PL squad under new coach Potter. EFL Cup R3 app. EFL Trophy team. U21 Romania squad for Euros. Went on loan in Dutch league from Jan 20 - cut short by covid pandemic, 4 apps. 20/21 - in U21 & larger Romania squad for Nat Lg. EFL Trophy apps. Went to Dynamo Kiev for season. Foot injury probs, only 1 app. Romania squad June '21 & Olympic squad July '21. 21/22 - in wider PL squad, what next? Caught between changes in clubs cultures. Somewhere under the radar again. Left end of June '22. Returned to Romania. Total = 0 Prem apps.
in 19 - Adam Desbois - out 22 (63)
Keeper: young English goalie who showed he was handy in gloves between the academy sticks. Made progress into higher custodian training goups. 19/20 - Sussex Cup app. 20/21 - new contract. EFL Trophy on bench. Offered new deal. 21/22 - part of club's larger keepers union. EFL Trophy on bench. Sussex Cup apps. Went to Leatherhead in Feb '22. Released in June '22.
in 20 - Ulrick Eneme Ella - out 22 (45)
French striker joined academy from Amiens. The 19yo has U18 apps and scored goals. Also experience in Austria. Injury problems. 20/21 - EFL Trophy played sub. PL2 apps. 21/22 - can he progress? EFL Trophy sub. Sussex Cup app. 8 PL2 apps 1gl. Work still to do. Joined Angers in June '22.
in 20 - Jaami Qureshi - out 22 (79)
English youngster entered pro ranks as a forward for this annual intake to dev group. 21/22 - 13 apps 2gls. Sussex Cup sub & on bench. Youth Cup sub. Released in June '22.
in 20 - John Lucero out 22 (78)
A Brit midfielder hoping to later play in EFL divs at least. 21/22 - 11 apps. Sussex Cup on bench. Let go in June '22.
in 20 - Lars Dendoncker - out '22
Belgium U19 defender signed from Bruges on 2yr deal in delayed '20 close season. Joined revamped development group for PL2 season. 20/21 - EFL Trophy app. EFL Cup on bench. PL2 apps. In Belgium U21 squad. 21/22 - went to St Johnstone for season but recalled Jan '22. 6 SPL apps. Future needs thought. Let go in June '22.
in 20 - Ayo Tanimowo - out '22 (49)
Joined from Norwich in '18 and part of U18 side that progressed in Youth Cup. Steps up as a right back with pace to be a wingback. Injury problems. 20/21 - EFL Trophy on bench. Offered new deal. 21/22 - 4 PL2 apps cut short by injury, so can he make progress? More hard yards required. Let go in June '22.
in 17 - Jayson Molumby - out 22
Young midfield prospect elevated from development teams. U21 RoI caps. EFL Cup app. Long term injury but on bench in '19 FAC5 tie. In Ireland U21 squad summer tournament. Went on loan to Millwall, Preston then off to West Brom. 17/18 - impressive debut as holding m-f in League Cup tie. High praise for games in U21 Rep of Ireland squad. Suffered knee injury & surgery - out a year. 18/19 - returned from very long rehab. FA Cup r5 on bench. On fringes of senior squad. In Ireland U21 squad for tournament in France. 19/20 - signed 2yr contract. Went on loan to Millwall for season - extended. U21 Ireland Euro qualifier squad. 20/21 - Contract extension to 2023. Called up to RoI squad for Nations League & WC quali's. EFL Cup R3&4 apps. 0 (1) PL apps. Went to Preston from Jan '21 for rest of season - regular apps. In Ireland squad June '21. 21/22 - out on loan to West Brom for the season. Playing at higher level. Called into Irish squad. Signed for WBA in May '22. Total = 0 (1) Prem apps 0 gls.
in 18 - Billy Arce - out 22
Pre-season '18 4yr purchase for 20yo Ecuadorian striker prospect from Independiente. On loan to Extremadura in Spain div2 to Jan '19 then changed clubs to Emelec in S America until Jan '20. Next on to Quito to Dec '21. Recalled to BHA Jan '22. Club cancelled contract. Left in Feb to seek playing time elsewhere. A casualty of the system offering dreams but far from stark reality.
in 18 - Dan BURN - out 22 (Prem 33)
26yo cent def from Wigan was Aug deadline signing for 4yrs. Tall with plenty of back line experience in EFL pyramid. Recovered from leg break. Stayed at Latics on loan to New Year. FA Cup apps. Bench regular. Broke into 1st 11 as left c-d or wingback. Squad regular during 4th PL term. Signed for Newcastle in Jan '22. 18/19 - bench regular, no PL apps but for FA Cup r3, made full debut in r4 - MoM. FAC5 app but not q-f. 19/20 - playing in back three of 541 shape under Potter. MoM first games. Made all apps until broke collar bone. Signed extended contract to 2023. Regular left back in 442. 33 (1) PL apps, 0 gls. 20/21 - had previously made the left side all his but got competition. EFL Cup R2/3/4 apps. Started on PL bench. FA Cup R4/5 apps. Hamstring tug. Dramatic first goal. 23 (4) PL apps, 1 gl, 5Y. 21/22 - left footed so offers something in the right way. EFL Cup R3&4 apps. PL armband in lieu of Dunk. Rare goal. FAC3 app. Interest from Newcastle and transfer Jan '22. 12 (1) PL apps 1gl 4Y . Total = 68 (6) Prem apps 2 gls.
in 19 - Ryan Longman - out 22
Graduated thru academy since 2012 to U23s with extended deal after promise in U18 group during 18/19. Winger who scores goals in 3:1 ratio. Jun '20 new contract. Went to Wimbledon for season - 20apps, 5gls. Got a 2yr deal. Joined Hull on loan Aug '21 then permanently in Jan '22.
in 21 - Gary Dicker - out 22 (U21 asst coach)
Came back into Albion during July close season to help with training of young pros group as an overage player. Experienced midfielder from late Withdean era and first two Amex seasons. Previously at Kilmarnock coaching reserve team. Retired to become BHA U18 coach in Feb '22. Ex-Albion L1 & C'ship midfield dynamo, left BHA at the Amex in 2013 for pastures new. He returned in '21 to slot into an overage player role, come U23 coach, for the PL2 team. The 34yo from Ireland was with Stockport before joining Brighton in League One. Russ Slade snapped him up during 2009 at W'dean and he had 4yrs further at BHA with 150+ apps. GD (no.18) was part of the team who won promo into the C'ship for our first season at Falmer 11/12. GD had spells in EFL lower divs prior to joining Kilmarnock in the SPL in 2016. He got 150+ apps and coached their reserve team to boot. Dicker progressed to BHA U18 & U21 asst coach during personnel changes of 2022.
in 13 - Chris WALTON - out 22 (Squad 31)
Keeper; was first choice in U21 squad. Then elevated to reserve choice in match-day squad. England credentials for U19. 14/15 Debut in League Cup at Spurs. Lg debut & mom to boot. Kept under wraps at tough pro level until development more advanced. 15/16 - loaned to Bury or was it Stanley I presume? Groin injury. Then loaned to Pymouth - his home town club. 16/17 - on loan at Luton. Recalled in Feb when Maenpaa injured. Went on loan to Southend in April. 17/18 - only way is up, out on loan at Wigan. Got injured but went back to be no.1 and a huge future prospect. Signed new 4yr deal. L1 keeper of the season. 18/19 - season loan at Wigan in the Championship. 19/20 - borrowed by Blackburn. 20/21 - injured in pre-season. Didn't figure in PL squad. 21/22 - EFL Cup bench. Went to Ipswich for season. Signed permanently in Jan '22. Never played in the Prem. Is sometimes more fulfilling regularly stood between match-day posts than sat on a bench.
in 18 - Jurgen LOCADIA - out 22 (Prem 27)
24yo striker from PSV Eindhoven got a 4yr deal at cost of 14m in Jan '18 window. Holland U21 caps. Limited PL sub apps prior to run in side. Left wing but third striker option. Went to Germany until Jan '20. Then off to America from Feb '20, extended to June '21. In PL squad Aug '21. 17/18 - FA Cup & PL scoring debuts. Room for improvement after merely 3 (3) PL apps, 1 gl. 18/19 - not picked to start but on bench. Groin strain. League Cup app. Transfer speculation unfounded. FA Cup apps. Got a run in side in lieu of squad injuries. Scan on ankle. Got to up the ante if possible. 12 (14) PL apps, 2 gls. 19/20 - on left side of attack in 541 shape. Looked behind the curve. 1 (1) PL apps, 0 gls. Quickly moved out to Europe on loan at Hoffenheim for season - got goals. Joined Cincinnati in the States from Feb '20. 20/21 - MSL deal extended to June '21. 21/22 - included in PL squad and needed higher fitness level. Illness in panemic. EFL Cup R3 sub, R4 start. PL2 app. PL sub. Joined Bochum on a free in Jan '22. 0 (1) PL apps. total 16 (19) Prem apps 3gls.
* * * * *
in 18 - Percy TAU - out 21 (Prem 22)
pre-season arrival from Sundowns in SA where was player of the season. An international with 12 caps, the 24yo was a prolific goalscorer in South Africa. Progressive with experiences. 18/19 - on loan to RUS Gilloise in Belgium. Apps in SA squad for Africa Cup of Nations. Voted player of the year in Belgium. UK work permit issues. 19/20 - borrowed by Club Brugge for season, successful term. 20/21 - went to Anderlecht for half of campaign. Recalled in Jan '21. Debut as sub in FA Cup3, started R4&5. Prem start debut too. In RSA squad for Africa Cup and had to quarantine. Tight hamstring. Missed nat squad due to +ve covid test. 1 (2) PL apps, 0 gls. Swerved RSA Olympic team. 21/22 - caught between a rock & table top mountain. Wanted back in Africa. Talent unused, transferred to Egypt Lg Aug '21.
in 16 - Ben WHITE - out 21 (Prem 3)
elevated briefly to first team squad from Academy group. Contract extended to 2022. Promising cent-def had EFL Cup apps. On loan at Newport for 17/18. With U23 PL2 div1 team and close to PL match-day group. On loan at Peterboro in 19, then Leeds for 19/20 season - well regarded. Signed to June 24. BHA Prem regular. Called into England squad for Euros in '21. 16/17 - excellent prospect for future 1st 11 on evidence of displays. 17/18 - keep on trucking... at Newport for the season. 18/19 - got a contract extension to 2021. On fringes of PL match-day group. Went on loan to Peterboro from New Year. 19/20 - extra yr on deal to '22. Went on loan to Leeds - extended to season late finish. 20/21 - Priced at 40m for some big club transfer speculation. BHA refused bids from Leeds. Signed up to June '24. Straight in on right of back three. EFL Cup R4 app. Finding feet in PL. Moved to cd-mf and versatile. FA Cup R3&5 apps. Red card! Called up to Engand Euros provisional squad and made the cut into k-o stages. Voted BHA PoY. 36 PL apps, 0 gls, 3Y, 1R. Signed for Arsenal in close season at end of July, for 50m. At World Cup '22.
in 18 - Alireza JAHANBAKHSH - out 21 (Prem16)
Record buy around 17m for 24yo Iranian World Cup winger via Alkmaar on 5yr deal. Top scorer in Dutch league last term, a versatile player. Talks sense too. Hamstring injury reduced PL apps. At Asia Cup. Made apps in 4th Prem term from bench. 18/19 PL - stepped up to rigours of the top English, if not global, seasonal competition. League Cup app. Named in Iran squad. Recovered from hamstring prob. At Asia Cup. FA Cup apps. Limited 12 (7) PL apps, 0 gls. Finding it hard at level. In Iran squad for friendlies. 19/20 - not usually in match-day 18 under Potter. EFL Cup R2 app. Picked for Iran squad but withdrew. Made start at Xmas - 2 super goals. FA Cup app. In the background after lockdown over. 3 (7) PL apps, 2 gls = 5 apps/gl. 20/21 - Pecking order harder than ever. In Iran squad. EFL Cup R2,3,4 apps & 2 goals. Making PL bench. Hamstring prob. FA Cup3 app. 6 (14) PL apps, 0 gls, 2Y. total 21 (29) Prem apps. Joined Feyenoord in July '21 for 5m. At World Cup '22.
in 17 - Maty RYAN - out 21 (Prem 1)
Keeper: A close season 5 million (record), 5 year signing of Australian International keeper from Valencia. He said, 'rain, hail or shine I will be there to try and contribute the best I can and hopefully help the team to some successes along the way.' Number one choice in PL & Aussies team. Not challenged much by others in keepers union. PFA Australia PoY 2019. 17/18 PL - Made a few rickets in friendlies and opening fixtures but got better. Established as pukka Prem custodian. Called up by home country for World Cup apps. PoY short list. Made all 38 PL apps. 18/19 - main PL handler but not for Cups. Picked as Aussie goalie again and figured in 2019 Asia tournament. Midwinter loss of form into spring. FAC q-f & s-f apps. Needed more saves/stops/blocks & better distribution. 34 PL apps. 19/20 - first choice from PL get go. Voted PFA Australia player of year. In WC squad again down under as capt. Made all 38 Prem apps to belated end. 20/21 - apparently not much competition to displace this antipodean handler. Voted Aussie PoY again. Suddenly twice dropped back to squad and lost gloves. 11 PL apps, 1Y. total 121 Prem apps. January window transfer speculation. Went on loan to Arsenal in Jan '21. In the next close season he signed for Real Sociadad. At World Cup '22.
in 19 - Romaric Yapi - out 21 (52 U23)
Youngster signed from PSG close to deadline. French 19yo defender got a 1+1yr deal with development group. Right-sided flank player had experience with the Paris club and also apps in the UEFA Youth League. Jun '20 New contact. U23 regular apps over 2 seasons. Signed for Vitesse in July '21.
in 18 - Viktor Gyokeres - out 21 (Squad 42)
19yo Swedish striker with U19 caps. Joined 2nd squad from January '18 window. Part of team promoted to PL2 Div1. On fringes of PL & FA Cup match-day groups. Raised to Sweden squad and in U21 team. Went on loan to German 2nd div until june '20. Then off to Swansea from Oct and later Coventry from Jan '21 - 19apps, 3gls. Signed for Coventry in July '21 for 1m. Regular striker who scored goals for Sky Blues. Interest from bigger clubs in '23.
in 18 - BERNARDO da Silva Jr - out 21 (Prem 30)
Brazilian defender who played in Germany and had experience in Europe competitions. Son of Brazil international Bernardo Fernandes da Silva. Claimed lb spot in PL & FA Cup. Potential to shine. Injury curtailed apps. Went to Salzburg in '21, signed perm move . 18/19 Prem - got a match-day sub place. League Cup app. Belated PL start. Held the left back shirt. Hamstring prob. FA Cup apps. Potential to kick on but needs to raise game. 19 (3) PL apps, 0 gls. 19/20 - started on bench in new shape set-up under Potter. EFL Cup R2 app. Picked up ongoing injury - back in training. FA Cup app. Late inclusions. 7 (7) PL apps, 0 gls. 20/21 - tough job on to break thru as a regular. EFL Cup R2/3/4 apps and first goal. On PL bench. FA Cup3 sub app. 2 (1) PL apps, 0 gls. total 28 (11) Prem apps. Loan deal to RB Salzburg from Jan '21 then in July signed for RBS.
in 19 - Marcus Dackers - out 21 (U18)
Youngster from Wales plays in midfield. Went out on loan in non league for experience of semi-pro soccer. Signed at Salford July '21.
in 19 - Jan Mlakar - out 21 (U23)
Winter deadline day U23 deal for 20yo Slovenian striker who scores goals. Returned to home club Maribor on loan. Came through youth football in Italy. Has U21 caps & Europa Lg apps. Loaned to QPR from Aug '19. On loan at QPR & then Wigan in 19/20. Went back to Maribor in Aug '20 on loan. Joined Hajduk Split in July '21.
in 17 - Davy PROPPER - out 21 (Prem 24)
25yo Dutchman, to fill a goalscoring midfield role, gotten in for club record fee of around 10m. Played in Champions League for PSV and intern'l caps for Netherlands. PL regular pick. In Nations League squad. Held back by injury. 17/18 Prem - Got up to speed pdq after finding feet. Injured playing for Holland in qualifiers. Ever present in PL bar ban - 35 PL apps, 0 gls. Called up again by home country. Banned but looked harsh. 18/19 - improved range of skills. Pulled out of Netherlands squad for Nations League. Ankle injury. PL regular but only 1 goal. Called up to Dutch squad. FAC q-f/s-f apps. Needed to go up a couple of notches. Hamstring prob. 30 PL apps, 1gl. PoY short list. Went to Nations League in Portugal. 19/20 - centre m-f in 541 formation under Potter. In Holland group but withdrew with hamstring tug. Contract extension to 2023. Regular but lacks goals. 32 (3) PL apps, 1gl. 20/21 - Can he raise aim & game? Chosen for Holland squad but out injured again. EFL Cup R2&3 apps. Archilles prob. FA Cup R3/4 sub apps. 2 (5) PL apps, 0 gls. total 99 (8) Prem apps. Rejoined PSV in June '21. Retired aged 30 in Jan '22 having lost desire to play.
in 19 - Andrew CROFTS - out 21 (1st team coach)
Ex-Albion L1 Captain and midfield dynamo, Crofty left BHA at Withdean in 2010 for Norwich. He returned in '12 to slot straight into a Championship team hoping to beat last terms tenth pos. The 28yo from Kent was with Chelsea youth before joining Gillingham as a pro. Russ Slade snapped him up in 2009 at W'dean and he had 44 apps for BHA. There were 68 caps for Canaries and 23 for Wales. AC scored around thirty goals in career to date and useful to add more from midfield at any level. Long term injury probs and shadow of former self but regained fitness. Left in 2016. Went on loan to Gillingham to get games. In summer 2019 Crofts returned to BHA as U23 group player/coach. On PL squad fringes. Became BHA U23 head coach in June '21 then 1st team coach in Sept '22.
in 17 - Jose IZQUIERDO - out 21 (Prem 19).
Club record signing just prior to Prem koff, of 13.5m for the 25yo Columbian internat'l winger from Brugge. Had cup & league success in Belgium from 2014, plus experience in Europa & Champions League. Became a PL favourite but suffered long-term knee injury after World Cup '18 app. Out for all but two whole seasons. 17/18 Prem - League Cup full debut then PL squad regular. 23 (8) apps, 5 gls = 6.2 apps/gl. FA Cup apps. Called up by home country for World Cup squad. Voted Goal of the Season. 18/19 - one trick pony accusation had to be disproved. Injured pre-season. Withdrew from Columbia squad. Ongoing knee prob. Lack of apps 9 (6), 0 gls. Off form & not firing - ligament surgery. 19/20 - v slow recovery and rehab, never in squad training. 20/21 - return delayed but back training Aug '20. On bench PL2 - scored. Very late included on PL bench. Sub app in Apr. 0 (1) PL apps 0gls. total 32 (16) Prem apps. Left the club in June '21.
in - Toby Collyer - out 21 (71)
Young midfield prospect making progress thru academy development stages. 20/21 - added to England U17 training camp in Sept '20. U17 Cup winner. 21/22 - somewhat off radar.
in 19 - Jack Leahy - out 21 (89)
English forward player who as part of development group got experience in Youth Cup run and Sussex Senior Cup apps. Went to Merstham for 20/21 season, cut very short by covid lockdown.
in 20 - Rocco Rees - out 21 (U23)
Pompey kid came to Seagulls as a 12yo to learn goalkeeping. Went on loan at Worthing in '19. Signed as a pro in '20. 20/21 - on loan at Worthing for season. Curtailed by covid restrictions on fixtures. Let go in April.
in 19 - Stefan Vukoje - out 21 (60 U23)
Brought in from Serbia and integrated well to be part of successful young pro group as a forward in league and cup competitons. 19/20 - FA Youth Cup apps. 20/21 - EFL Trophy apps. Let go in April.
in 18 - Peter Gwargis - out 21 (44 U23)
Swedish 17yo midfielder got 3yr contract to bolster PL2 group. Had U17 caps and apps in home senior sides. In Sweden U18 squad. 19/20 - EFL Cup R3 app and in Trophy team. U21 Sweden squad for Euro qualifiers. Sussex Cup app. 20/21 - EFL Trophy app. EFL Cup playing sub R2&3. Let go in Apr, went to Malmo.
in 18 - Danny Cashman - out 21 (51 U23)
Graduate of youth sides in academy until reaching U18s. Development with U23s and more progress as forward player. 18/19 - Experience with U23s, EFL Trophy. 19/20 - Trophy team. 20/21 - new contract. EFL Trophy apps, PL2 apps but season affected by pandemic. Let go in April. Signed for Coventry but went on loan at Rochdale.
in 17 - Kipras Kazukolovas - out 21 (U23 57)
Came from Lithuania to join development group. Progress halted due to injury - out 18 months. 19/20 - latterly part of PL2 div1 team. 20/21 - new contract. Let go in April.
in 17 Max Sanders - out 21 (Squad 41)
Sussex kid from Horsham played in midfield; came thru Academy ranks from U18 to represent England in U19 side. 17/18 - captained BHA U23 teams in rise to PL2 Div1. On bench for EFL Cup. 18/19 - senior from U23 group elevated for PL elite training experiences & occasionally match-day squad. In 7s squad for HK Asia tournament. 19/20 - EFL Cup squad. Joined Wimbledon for season - cut short when L1 suspended for Covid-19 virus. 20/21 - contract extended to June 22. EFL Cup apps & playing sub. PL2 apps. On bench FAC3/4 & in PL. Joined Lincoln on Jan '21 window deadline.
in 17 - Glenn MURRAY - out 21 (Prem 17)
Signed permanently in the January window after arriving on loan from Bournemouth in summer of 2016. Second spell at BHA and a prolific goalscorer, netting 56 times prior to joining Palace after achieving promo with Albion in 2011 at Withdean. Also on loan at Reading in 2014 then moved to B'mouth in 2015. Regular scorer in PL side. 100 BHA goals over 2 spells. On bench as 36yo. Extension to June 2021. 16/17 Championship - Straight in and looked the part if given right service. Good goal/game ratio. Leading scorer. 17/18 Prem - had plenty more nous & guile to retain edge at higher level - leading scorer. Ongoing ankle problem resolved. 25 (10) PL apps. 18/19 - homegrown status. Veteran front man kept finding the net. Carried off on 99 goals. Got to 100 a week later! Signed 1yr extention. 31 (7) - 100+ PL apps overall. FA Cup subs brace. First pick most weeks. Calf strain. Gotta find shooting boots again. 19/20 - no longer first on teamsheet under Potter in new set up. EFL Cup r2 app. Bench only or late sub role. Jan window speculation after not in m-d 18. Received contract extension to '21. Mouthpiece for players in media interviews during Covid-19 crisis. 7 (16) PL apps. total 62 (34) Prem apps. 20/21 - Aged hero talisman fades out on loan at Watford. But later transfered to Forest, with ex-boss Chris Hughton in charge, from Jan '21. He retired in May '21 to mark end of a 20yr career. Murray returned as an ambassador in late '21. He also did media pundit work on tv, radio and live.
in 18 - Warren O'Hora - out 21 (U23 Squad)
18yo Irish cent-def. Had Rep of Ireland U19 caps. Came from Bohemians on 2.5yr deal into dev group. Trained with first team squad. Jun '20 new contract. Went to MK Dons for season, signed permanently Jan '21.
* * * * *
in 14 - Dale STEPHENS - out 20 (Prem 6)
M-f; Bolton born and youngster at Bury. 24yo signed from Charlton for 3yrs at Xfer window. Spotted by Nathan Jones at lev2 but experience in lower league with Oldham - 70+ apps, 12 goals. 80+ apps for Addicks. Became a BHA m-f stalwart. Steady & solid but no playmaker. 13/14 Championship - straight in under Garcia, ok without setting the world on fire. Injury probs curtailed number of apps. 14/15 - under Hughton recovered from injury and got to up his level in games on long road back. 15/16 - like a new signing, scored goals too. Industrious and prominent in two-man central m-f. Banned in play-offs! 16/17 - subject to transfer speculation, submitted a request. Stayed and sent off. Back from injury, did good. Got a 4yr contract. 17/18 Prem - homegrown on PL list. First choice in cent mf. Looks the part & ever present until injured - 36 PL apps. 18/19 - first choice selection to spine of team. Hamstring prob. Regular PL apps as vice capt. FA Cup apps. Not a playmaker and limited creative scope. 29 (1) PL apps. 19/20 - central part of revised 343/541 shape under Potter. 5 yellows. FA Cup app. Dropped down order. 28 (5) PL apps. total 93 (6) Prem apps. 20/21 - Plenty of competition from revised squad. Linked with move back to home in northwest. EFL Cup app. Transferred to Burnley in Sept '20. Retired in March '23.
in 18 - David BUTTON - out 20 (Prem 27)
July signing from Fulham to make up keeper numbers. Was at Charlton, Brentford and had previous loans away from Spurs. Good replacement for Ryan. 18/19 Prem - knee surgery. Competed for gk place from bench. League Cup app. PL debut in lieu Ryan with Australia - 4 apps. FA Cup apps. Must press harder for chance to start. 19/20 - on bench under Potter as in PL before. EFL Cup R2&3 apps. EFL Trophy app. FA Cup app. total 4 Prem apps. 20/21 - locked in a bench syndrome like Ankergren before him. Transferred to West Brom prior to Prem start in Sept for 1m. He was stopper against Seagulls in our Jan '22 FAC3 win at the Hawthorns.
in 19 - Aaron MOOY - out 20 (Prem 18)
Australia international borrowed (1yr) from ex-Prem Huddersfield for the 3rd PL campaign. 28yo had played in home country, after coming thru academy ranks in England, to then join SPL side St Mirren. Signed for Man City in 2016, loaned to Terriers and part of their promo to the elite. Regular caps for Australia. A playmaker who offers graft & craft from centre of the park. 19/20 - on loan & bench under Potter in new set up. EFL Cup R2 app. In Australia WC qualifiers squad down under. Sent off. Quality apps as playmaker. Signed permanently in Jan 20 with 3.5yr deal. Played wide sometimes, good delivery. 25 (6) PL apps. 20/21 - can step up as an extra attacker. Transferred to Shanghai in China at end of Aug '20 for 4m. Signed for Celtic in July '22. At World Cup '22.
in 18 - Martin MONTOYA - out 20 (Prem 22)
Eleventh hour summer deadline day signing from Valencia for experienced right back. Had form with Barca & Inter but 27yo got 4yrs at BHA. Champions League apps & Catalonia international. PL regular. Steps up into Bruno's shoes. 18/19 Prem - regular on PL teamsheet. FA Cup apps. Getting it done with some skill going forward. In Catalonia squad. Needs to show real class in defence. 24 (1) PL apps. 19/20 - playing as wingback in 343/541 shape under Potter. Competition from March, Schelotto and later Lamptey. Not a wingback shoe-in but can do a defensive job. 23 (4) PL apps. total 47 (5) Prem apps. Transferred to Real Betis in August '20.
in 15 - Beram KAYAL - out 20 (Prem 25)
Came in the January transfer window from Celtic. Got a 2.5yr deal to give some quality in midfield. Experience in Champions League and also caps for Israel. 26yo was box to box player and had defensive & creative qualities. PL apps from bench. In Israel squad. Abilties under-used. On loan at Charlton in 2019 but returned injured. 14/15 - Not all defensive minded and showed plenty of box-to-box experience to cope with demands of unforgiving Championship. 15/16 - displayed quality in centre of park. 5+ yellows. Capable of scoring goals and probably needs to in future. Got PoY award and very well earned. 16/17 - faced competition in central midfield. Surgery on ankle. 17/18 - in 25 man pl pool and on bench but tough to get start, depending on tactical formation. Broke leg pre-season, out four months. FA Cup apps. 8 (11) PL apps. Called up by home country squad. 18/19 - cover for PL cent-mf, bench regular. League Cup app as Capt. In Israel squad for Nations League. 1yr contract extention. FA Cup apps. Fell down pecking order. In Euro 2020 qualifiers. 9 (9) PL apps. total 17 (20) Prem apps. 19/20 - went on loan to Charlton for season. Injured and called back in Jan window. Contract extended in lockdown. On fringes and left in July.
in 17 - Ezequiel SCHELOTTO - out 20 (Prem 21)
Arrived via Inter & Sporting on last day of August window. 28yo Argentinian had nearly 200 games in Europe as a defender and wingback. Made regular PL apps 1st PL season but not in 25 man squad for 2nd year. On loan to Verona from Jan 19 window but sidelined by long-term knee injury. 17/18 PL - League Cup app. Subbed on first Prem start at h-t. FA Cup apps. Run of 15 (6) PL apps. Attacking flair. 18/19 - not in PL 18 man match-day group for selection. From Jan window went out on loan in Italy Serie A. Cruciate injury ongoing. 19/20 - named in 27 man PL squad under Potter. Recovery from surgery. Competition as offensive wingback. FA Cup app. Contract extended in summer lockdown but on fringes. 4 (4) PL apps. total 20 (9) Prem apps. Left the club for foreign climes in July.
in 16 - Anthony KNOCKAERT - out 20 (Prem 11)
French wideman got a three & half year deal in the New Year. BHA paid 2m to Standard Liege but the 24yo had previous with Leicester in the Championship. Instant impact in a team chasing promotion. Much tougher to star in the Prem. Flair player but emotional reactions. Went on loan to Fulham from summer of 2019. 15/16 - showed skills & looked a useful asset in promotion push. 16/17 - subject to early bids from Newcastle but in south on day1. A player of Prem quality. Named as Championship player of the season & BHA player of the year. Voted by fellow pros to be in 'best league side.' 17/18 - got a reputation at level2 to live up to and more difficult to shine in the Prem. Sent off - petulance on/off field this term. 27 (6) PL apps. 18/19 - another chance to prove full capabilities. FA Cup apps. Bench regular. Limited 18 (12) PL apps. total 45 (18) Prem apps. Red card. Disappointing season. 19/20 - went on loan to Fulham, with view to a permanent deal. Signed permanently in July for 15m.
in 18 - George Cox - out 20 (U23 Squad)
defender; 22yo came thru Academy ranks. Had heart surgery but returned to full fitness for U23 PL2 div1 side. 18/19 - year contract extension. Checkatrade Trophy apps. Went on loan to Northampton from Jan. In 7s squad for HK Asia tournament. 19/20 - Went on loan to Dutch side Fortuna Sittard for season with permanent transfer in July for 45k.
in 18 - Leon BALOGUN - out 20 (Prem 14)
Summer signing of big German c-d adds to 2nd season back line. Nigerian international with experience of World Cup, Africa Cup & Europa League. Lack of apps. 18/19 Prem - cover on rhs via bench. Early debut to replace injured Dunk and later banned Duffy. App in Nigeria Africa Cup squad. FA Cup apps. Sore shoulder. Down pecking order to Burn. Went to Africa Cup. 5 (3) PL apps. 19/20 - not usually in match-day 18 under Potter. EFL Cup r2 app. 5th choice of 5 c-ds. FA Cup app. Went to Wigan on loan from Jan 20. Signed permanently in June 20.
in 17 - Jordan Davies - out 20 (U23 Squad)
18yo from Wrexham had Welsh U19 caps. Left back with U23 PL2 squads & apps went on to pro game. Released, so joined Wrexham in National League Aug '20. Good reports '21.
in 17 - Archie Davies - out 20 (U23 Squad)
Signed from academy and progressed thru U18s at right back. Went on loan to Whitehawk for a spell before regular apps in PL2 div1. Released July 20 and soon signed for Crawley Town.
in 18 - Bojan Radulovic - out 20 (U23 Squad)
Striker signed on Jan 18 transfer deadline from Lleida for dev squad. Prolific scorer in Spanish lower leagues. Went back to Spain 4th tier outfit for first part of 18/19 season. Part of useful PL2 div1 squad. Went to Alaves from Jan 20 on loan. Released June 20, to AIK in Sweden.
in 18 - Hugo Keto - out 20 (U23 Squad)
goalie on a free from Arsenal in July pre-season. 20yo Finland U21 keeper came via Helsinki to originally join Gunners youth squad in 2014. App in Finland UEFA qual squad. U23 group but Feb 19 on loan at Waterford. Released in June 20, went back to Helsinki.
in 19 - Lewis Freestone - out 20 (U23 Squad)
Summer signing from Peterboro of 19yo left-side defender wih EFL experience. Was on loan at non league clubs in previous season. Released in June 20, went to Cheltenham.
in 19 - Kasper Lopata - out 20 (U23 Squad)
Polish youngster joined academy at U18 level as a cent-def but who returned to homeland. Released in June 20 and went off to Sheff Utd.
in 18 - Luca Cocoracchio - out 20 (U23 Squad)
English kid who came thru academy to U18 group as cent-def. Part of successful 19/20 teams, also Youth Cup. Released in June 20.
in 18 - Tareq Shihab - out 20 (U23 Squad)
Graduated thru academy in U18s and signed for U23s as a defender. Went on loan at Tamworth to increase experience. Retired in April 20.
in 17 - Soufyan Ahannach - out 20 (U23 Squad)
21yo winger from Almere in Holland got a 3yr contract. Prolific scoring record in Dutch second tier. Loaned to Rotterdam for 2018 but suffered a broken leg. Back for PL2 div1 in 19. Borrowed by Bloom's RUSG in Belgium. Joined Dutch league club in Jan 20.
in 15 - Gaetan BONG - out 20 (Prem 3)
Joined in close season, for 2yrs, on a free from Wigan. 27yo was Cameroonian left back and had played prior for Olympiakos in Greece. Recovered from injury to be PL regular pick. In home country squad again. Some PL second season apps. Reliable group & international player. 15/16 Championship - Straight in and did ok in new set up. Required surgery for leg injury. 16/17 - became number one at no.3. 5 yellows. Then a red. Got injured & lost place. 17/18 PL - in 25 man pool but starting selection under threat from new signing. Subbed in League Cup. Injured in training. League Cup & FA Cup app. Given the shirt for PL defensive contests. 25 PL apps. Signed extension to 2019. 18/19 - initialy first choice. App for early Cameroon Africa Cup squad, later injured. FA Cup app. Bench regular. Signed 1yr extension. Went to Africa Cup. 19 (3) PL apps. 19/20 - often outside match-day 18. EFL Cup R2&3 apps. In Cameroon squad WC qualifiers. FA Cup app. 0 (4) PL apps. total 44 (7) Prem apps. Transferred to Nott'm Forest in Jan 20 window.
in 17 - James Tilley - out 20 (U23 Squad)
Sussex born forward rose from development group to fringes of first team match-day squad. EFL Cup app. Went on loan to Cork from Jan 19 but returned injured. Second loan at Yeovil. Left to join Grimsby in Jan 20.
in 18 - Anders Dreyer - out 20 (U23 Squad)
Danish winger with Superliga credentials who scored goals to games at a 2:1 ratio. Has many U21 caps to boot. Went on loan from Jan 19 in Scots PL. On fringe of first squad. Second loan to Dutch league. Joined Danish club in Jan 20. Played in Ch Lg. In Russia for '21.
* * * * *
in 12 - BRUNO Salter Grau - out 19 (Prem 2)
Gus Poyet managed to obtain services of Vicente for a second year and to sweeten the pill also got Bruno in - ex-contract from Valencia. The two were team mates there and so helped both to settle at BHA for the second Championship season at the Amex. The 31yo Spaniard from Barcelona played for Espanyol, Lleida, Almeria and then Valencia. The no nonsense right back was first a defender but would go forward to aid attacks. He had over 360 apps in his home country and scored seven goals. Bruno was experienced and also brought other strengths to the position. Suffered extended injuries but recovered to perform well at Champ's & PL levels. El Capitan retired at end of the 18/19 season, instantly becoming a club legend. Took badges and became a BHA development coach. Left for Chelsea in Sept '22. 12/13 - first choice. Something of a fans favourite. Got class, skill, flair and charisma. Got several Mom awards. Heel/calf strains etc and fragile. 13/14 - fitness carefully monitored. 10 yellows and bans. Had good & bad days. Lost scoring touch. 14/15 - started as a real old pro and easily adapted to wingback or m-f role - got forward to score. Needed to stand up and be counted but straight red! Regular when fit on week by week basis. 15/16 - renewed vigor and good form so always on teamsheet. 16/17 - made club captain but started as a centre back. Outstanding senior pro in wingback role. 17/18 Prem - got this extra year deal, given the shirt & armband. Class act in this div. Rested sometimes with back problem. But another year added to contract for the 38yo. 23 (2) PL apps. 18/19 - club captain but not many PL apps. Hamstring prob in 1st game. Managed minutes for short series of games. FA Cup apps. Run-in hero with pro displays. 14 PL apps. total 37 (2) Prem apps. Retired at end of season. In Sept '22 Bruno joined Graham Potter at Chelsea as part of his coaching team. On Potter's sacking in April '23 the Spaniard took charge of Blues in an interim role.
in 15 - Liam ROSENIOR - out 19 (Prem 23)
Fullback signed from Hull by Hughton in '15 to join C'ship squad pushing for promotion to the Prem. Injury problems curtailed full no. of apps over two seasons until auto-promo in '17. Part of PL 1st 11 squad but on fringes. Only 3 apps over first term until '18. Became part of Academy set up at Lancing as U23 asst coach. When Potter took over he moved on to Derby in '19 and eventually 1st team coaching. Took on asst manager role to Wayne Rooney. Then interim manager at troubled Rams during June '22. Got the head coach job at Hull in Nov '22, returning to where he'd been a player for five years prior to joining BHA.
in 15 - Tomer HEMED - out 19 (Prem 10)
Experienced Israeli striker signed for Albion after a short spell at Almeria. Played in Spain and homeland for several clubs and had a good goals to games ratio. Not a Prem regular. Borrowed by QPR to June 19. In Israel squad. Linked with move to Charlton. 15/16 - Straight in and scored but needed more work to get up to speed. Long period of drought but got into right areas. Useful in air but not on end of many crosses. 16/17 - picked initially In orthodox 442. Not quite a top rank striker at level. 17/18 Prem - not expected to figure that much but lack of other strikers gave him a chance. Was so far so good until FA3 match ban for violent conduct, based on video evidence, scuppered his season. FA Cup apps but not q-f. Called up by home country. 8 (7) PL apps total. 18/19 - early transfer speculation. Joined QPR on season loan. App for Israel squad in Nations League. 19/20 - named in 27 man PL squad. Left to join Charlton after contract cancelled.
in 17 - Markus SUTTNER - out 19 (Prem 29)
The second player from Ingolstadt and signed in home country of Austria during Albion summer camp there. Experienced left-sided defender who Chris Hughton believed could be effective in the Premier League. Not a PL regular but made EFL Cup apps. 17/18 - Exposed in opening fixtures. Cover for Bong. FA Cup apps, 13 (1) PL apps total. 18/19 - not a regular spot in any match-day 18. League Cup app. Went on loan in Germany from Jan 19. Joined Dusseldorf permanently in July 19.
in 16 - Richie Towell - out 19 (C'ship)
24yo m-f attacker signed to play from New Year 16 after agreeing terms for 2.5yr deal in Dec. Was on books at Dundalk in Ireland but previously with Hibs & Celtic in Scotland. A Dubliner, he scored plenty of goals in his home country so a move to England was better than just luck. Extended contract until 2019 but twice went out on loan. 16/17 - got injured but out in the cold? FAC app. An enigma. Got a contract to 2019. 17/18 - Went out on season loan to Rotherham. League Cup app. 18/19 - transfer speculation, out on loan to Millers again. Let go June 19. Joined Salford for next term in EFL.
in 18 - Ben Barclay - out 19 (U23 Squad)
Part of academy progression as a defender who was included in PL pre-season. Capt of U23 side. EFL Cup app. Went on loan to Notts Co. Released at end of 18/19 season. Went to Accrington. At Stockport in '21.
in 18 - Joe Tomlinson - out 19 (U23 Squad)
Young lad from Yeovil FC joined 2nd group in summer as a talented defender with prospects. Loaned to Bognor for experience. Released at end of 18/19 season. Went to Hungerford.
in 18 - Steven Lujbicic - out 19 (U23 Squad)
Young 18yo striker from Iceland with U18 caps. Integrated with development group promoted to PL2 div1. Went on loan to Eastbourne Boro from Jan 19 window. Released at end of 18/19 season. Went to Grindavik in Iceland.
in 17 - Ales Mateju - out 19 (U23 Squad)
Czech U21 int'l right back from Viktoria Plzen. Youngster initially for development group. 17/18 - playing sub in EFL Cup ties. In successful U23 side promoted to PL2 div1 & Sussex Senior Cup winners. 18/19 - went on loan to Brescia. Signed for them in summer of 19.
in 17 - Billy Collings - out 19 (U23 Squad)
Keeper; Jan 2017 arrival via Reading. Learning trade in U23 set up. 18/19 - part of successful PL2 div1 squad but let go. Went to Lewes. At Haywards Heath in '21.
in 17 - Josh Kerr - out 19 (U23 Squad)
A young defender from Celtic youth side brought in as a future prospect from U23 football. The 19yo had experience in the kids Champions League and Scottish Cup to boot. On loan at Derry from Jan19. Released at end of 18/19 season, went to Airdrie.
in 16 - Ben Hall - out 19 (U23 Squad)
youngster who made the Motherwell cent-def pair, transferred to BHA with aims of breaking into the 1st 11 squad. From northern Ireland and a U19 cap to boot. Went on loan to Notts Co in 18/19 but returned injured. Released, went to Partick.
in 15 - Owen Moore - out 19 (U23 Squad)
defender; been on books since 2015 via Arsenal academy. PL2 div2 experience and EFL Trophy apps. 18/19 - PL2 div1 apps but let go.
in 15 - Will Collar - out 19 (U23 Squad)
Another Sussex youngster to step up from juniors and go thru academy development U18 & U23 stages. Part of successful PL2 squads during two seasons 17-19. Match day captain. EFL Cup app. Joined Hamilton in SPL for 19/20.
in 18 - Cameron Tutt - out 19 (U18 Squad)
Left back came to U18 level at Lancing training centre but transferred to non league Worthing in late July.
in 18 - Matt Weaire - out 19 (U18 Squad)
Danish thru birth and played in academy as a cent-def to U18. Released end of June and went to Colchester.
in 18 - George Bentley - out 19 (U18 Squad)
Young goalie who progressed to U18 level. Released and joined Horsham in non league.
in 18 - Jordan Araujo - out 19 (U18 Squad)
Canadian who got an academy place as a midfielder at U18. Released and took further flight to Portugal club GD Braganca.
in 18 - Julien Carre - out 19 (U18 Squad)
French kid got a place at Lancing centre of excellence to develop cent-def skills. Released and taken on by Brentford.
in 18 - Piotr Zalewski - out 19 (U18 Squad)
Polish handler joined young goalies union at BHA academy for U18s. Released, packed gloves in kit for arrival at Hellas Verona in Italy.
in 17 - Mathias Normann - out 19 (U23 Squad)
21yo Norwegian holding midfielder drafted in from Bodo Glimt. Got 3yr deal to prove he can translate on to EFL standard at least. Immediately went on loan to Molde for 6 months which was extended in '18. Some U23 apps. Left to join Rostov in Russia from Jan '19 window. Has caps for Norway. Back in UK on loan at Norwich Sept '21. In Canary yellow for abortive 21/22 Prem campaign.
in 15 - Dan Mandroiu - out 18 (U23 Squad)
midfield; Irish born lad joined BHA academy in 2015. PL2 div2 & EFL Trophy apps. Went from U23s to home country club Bohemians (IL Prem) in December 2018. Later progressed and got into Irish squad June '21. Joined Lincoln in July '22.
* * * * *

Past Players apps & goals

2017 to 2025 Prem seasons 7-14 (1st to 8th terms) appearances & league goals.

APPS by previous players who left by end of 24/25 or earlier seasons.
1 Ryan (gk) 38 34 38 11 . 1 Sanchez (gk) - - - 27 37 23 . 2 Bruno 23+2 14 x . 3 Bong 25 19+3 0+4 . 3 White - - - 36 . 3 Cucurella - - - - 35 .
6 Stephens 36 29+1 28+5 . 6 Karbownik - - - 0 0 0 . 6 Colwill - < - 13+4 . 7 Connolly - - 14+10 9+7 1+3 0 .
8 Bissouma - 13+11 15+7 35+1 25+1 . 8 Mwepu - < - 12+6 2+4 . 9 Maupay - - 28+7 29+4 25+8 . 10 Hemed 8+7 0 0 .
10 Mac Allister - - 4+5 13+8 22+11 31+4 . 11 Knockaert 27+6 18+12 0 . 11 Trossard - - 21+9 30+5 32+2 16 .
11 Gilmour - < - 7+7 24+6 1+1 . 13 Gross 35+3 24+1 22+7 27+7 24+5 37 34+2 . 14 Balogun - 5+3 0 .
14 Lallana - - - 16+13 18+6 12+4 13+12 . 15 Murphy 1+3 x x . 16 Ulloa 2+8 x x . 16 Jahanbakhsh - 12+7 3+7 6+14 .
17 Murray 25+10 31+7 7+16 . 17 Alzate - - 12+7 10+5 5+4 0 0 . 18 Goldson 2+1 x x . 18 Mooy - - 25+6 . 19 Izquierdo 23+8 9+6 0 0+1 .
21 Andone - 8+15 1+2 0 0 . 21 Schelotto 15+6 0 4+4 . Undav - < - 6+16 0 . 22 Tau - - - 1+2 0 . 22 Montoya - 24+1 23+4 .
23 Rosenior 1+2 x x . 24 Propper 35 30 32+3 2+5 . 24 Duffy 37 35 12+7 0 15+3 0 .
25 Kayal 8+11 9+9 0 . 25 Caicedo - - - 0 8 34+3 . 26 Krul (gk) 0 0 x . 26 Clarke - - 0 0 0 . 26 Khadra - - - 0+1 0 0 .
27 Button (gk) - 4 0 . 27 Locadia 3+3 12+14 1+1 0 0+1 . 27 Ostigard - - 0 0 0 . 27 Kozlowski - < - 0 0 0 . 28 Roberts - - - - 0 0 .
29 Suttner 13+1 0 x . 29 Zeqiri - - - 0 0+9 0 . 30 Bernardo - 19+3 7+7 2+1 . 30 Richards - - - - 0+2 0 . 31 Walton (gk) - - - 0 0 .
31 Fati - < - 3+16 . 33 Burn - - 33+1 23+4 12+1 . 35 Baluta - - 0 - 0 . 35 Dahood - < - 6+3 . 37 Brown 4+9 x x .
37 Weir - < - 0 0 0 0 . 41 Sanders - - 0 . 46 Leonard - < - 0 . 49 Molumby - - - 0+1

GOALS by previous players who left by end of 24/25 or earlier seasons.
Andone - 3 1 0 0 . Murray 12 13 1 x . Izquierdo 5 0 0 0 . Propper 0 1 1 0 . Jahanbakhsh - 0 2 0 . Locadia 1 2 0 0 0 . Burn - 0 0 1 1 .
Mooy - - 2 . Kayal 0 1 0 . Hemed 2 0 0 . Knockaert 3 2 0 . Stephens 0 1 0 . Connolly - - 3 2 0 0 . Ulloa 1 x x . Balogun - 1 0 .
Bissouma - 0 1 1 1 . Cucurella - - - - 1 . Maupay - - 10 8 8 0 . Mwepu - - - - 2 0 . Trossard - - 5 5 8 7 . Duffy 0 5 1 0 1 0 . Mac Allister - - 0 1 5 10 . Richards - - - - 0 0 . Khadra - - - 0 0 0 . Karbownik - - - 0 0 0 . Caicedo - - - 0 1 1 . Zeqiri - - - 0 0 0 . Lallana - - - 1 0 2 0 .
Alzate - - 0 1 0 0 0 . Kozlowski - < - 0 0 0 . Gross 7 3 2 3 2 9 4 . Undav - < - 5 0 . Fati - < - 2 . Weir - < - 0 0 0 0 . Gilmour - < - 0 0 0 . Dahood - < - 0

APPS/GL by previous players who left by end of 24/25 or earlier seasons . (no goals)
Tau - - - (3) 0 . Andone - 7.6 3 0 0 . Murray 2.9 2.9 23 . Propper (35) 30 35 (7) . Izquierdo 6.2 (15) 0 (1) . Locadia 6 13 (2) 0 (1) . Burn - - (34) 27 13 .
Jahanbakhsh - (19) 5 (20) 0 . White - - - (36) . Mooy - - 15 . Kayal (19) 9 0 . Hemed 8 0 0 . Knockaert 11 30 0 . Stephens (36) 30 (33) .
Connolly - - 8 8.5 (4) 0 . Ulloa 10 x x . Balogun - 8 0 . Bernardo - (22) (14) (3) . Bissouma - (24) 22 36 26 . Cucurella - - - - 35 .
Maupay - - 3.5 4.1 4.1 0 . Mwepu - - - - 9 (6) . Trossard - - 6.2 7 4.2 2.2 . Duffy (37) 7 19 0 18 0 . Mac Allister - - (9) 21 6.6 3.5 .
Richards - - - - (2) 0 . Khadra - - - (1) 0 0 . Karbownik - - - 0 0 0 . Caicedo - - - 0 8 37 . Zeqiri - - - 0 (9) 0 . Lallana - - - 29 (24) 8 (25) .
Alzate - - (19) 15 (9) 0 0 . Kozlowski - < - 0 0 0 . Gross 5.4 8.3 14.5 11.3 14.5 4.1 9.0 . Undav - < - 4.4 0 . Fati - < - 9.5 . Weir _ < - 0 0 0 0 .
Gilmore - < - (14) (30) (2) . Dahood - < - (9)

TOTAL apps/gls by previous players who left by end of 24/25 or earlier seasons.
Bruno 39/0, Bong 51/0, White 36/0, Cucurella 35/1, Stephens 99/1, Karbownik 0/0, Connolly 45/5 = 9, Bissouma 108/3 = 36, Mwepu 24/2 = 12,
Maupay 101/26 = 3.8, Hemed 15/2 = 7.5, Mac Allister 98/16 = 6.1, Knockaert 63/5 = 12.6, Trossard 115/25 = 4.6,
Gilmour 46/0, Gross 228/30 = 7.6, Balogun 8/1, Lallana 94/3 = 31.3, Murphy 4/0, Ulloa 10/1, Jahanbakhsh 50/2 = 25, Murray 96/26 = 3.6,
Alzate 44/1, Goldson 3/0, Mooy 27/2 = 13.5, Izquierdo 47/5 = 9.4, Andone 26/4 = 6.5, Schelotto 29/0, Undav 22/5 = 4.4, Tau 3/0, Montoya 52/0,
Rosenior 3/0, Propper 107/2 = 53.5, Duffy 109/7 = 15.5, Kayal 37/1, Caicedo 45/2 = 22.5, Clarke 0/0, Khadra 1/0,
Locadia 35/3 = 11.6, Kozlowski 0/0, Suttner 14/0, Zeqiri 9/0, Bernardo 39/0, Richards 2/0, Fati 19/2 = 9.5, Burn 74/2 = 37, Baluta 0/0, Brown 13/0,
Dahood 9/0, Weir 0/0, Sanders 0/0, Leonard 0/0, Molumby 1/0

* * * * *

Sami Hyypia

Falmer Years - 2014 Championship, Season4.
From playing in red to bossing in blue.
During the '14 close season a former Finnish international and Liverpool legend became Albion's third manager at the Amex in as many years. Hyypia had limited experience as boss with Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga after hanging up boots there in 2011. He also coached Finland's squad. As a player Hyypia enjoyed success on Merseyside and was a key man in the Champions League side of 2005. However, his record in charge of BHA was poor and with Albion adrift in the bottom three, he resigned his post in mid December - just before Xmas. Hyypia's strategic brand of wingless shape with narrow front runners did not prove successful and many supporters found it totally ineffective.

CHAMPIONSHIP Ins & Outs '14 - '17

Falmer Years: 2014 - 2017 (seasons 4-6) Championship.
in 17 - Tim KRUL - out 18 (Prem)
Came on loan from Newcastle at end of August window but signed permanently during September. The Dutch int'nat'l keeper had been in the north since 2005. Second choice for PL gloves. 29yo experienced custodian had spells at homeland clubs and internationals to boot. In 25 man Prem pool on bench. League Cup & FA Cup apps. 0 Prem apps. Declined new contract. Went to Norwich as Prem keeper in 19/20 - did ok.
Rohan Ince - out 18 (Championship)
midfield; came thru Chelsea youth and made an impact at BHA when used in holding role in lieu of Liam Bridcutt. Tall and strong, good in air. Championship; 13/14 - competitive but how creative? 14/15 - good in holding role and looked like a defender really. Big & athletic but not ungainly. 15/16 - came on as shield in front of rearguard. Very few apps so sent on loan to Fulham. 16/17 - middle of pecking order as defensive shield. LC & FAC apps. Went on loan to Swindon. Prem; 17/18 - looking in from the outside. On loan at Bury. League Cup app.
Kazenga LuaLua - out 18 (Championship)
Long serving wide man since 2011 departed in Jan window. Made 183 apps and scored 22 goals. Loaned from Newcastle 09/10. 19yo is a brother of Pompey's Congolese striker Lomana. Was ultra quick, can play l or r and a crowd pleaser. Done v good and form better. Then hamstrung in more ways than one. 10/11 L1; Gus got him again until New Year. Stunning first senior goal and faster than ever. On fire and can be an inferno. Hot shot or what? Loose cannon and dangerous. Broken ankle - out for season. 11/12 CHAMPS - returned on loan and had to deliver for BHA. Hamstring probs. Had more probs trying to beat Championship defenders. Signed permanently but was on bench. 12/13 - gotta work on full game. Impact player only. 13/14 - well, new coach etc so what next? Got selected but then had knee trouble. Impact as ever. 14/15 - don't call him impact only ever again! 15/16 - started like a hurricane but got injured. Back for run-in. 16/17 - injury prone. LC apps. Sent off U23 and long ban. Went on loan to QPR for '17. 17/18 - got a 6 month loan deal to QPR again. Signed for Sunderland in Jan 18.
Casper Ankergren - out 17 (Championship)
Keeper; 30yo Danish custodian with experience at Leeds in 09/10. Got 2 years, signing just before first fixture. 10/11 L1; lucky at times and in/out form. Strong hands and regular saves away apps - many clean sheets. Not too convincing around the area. But did get PoM for Sept and Mar - clean sheets too. Beat 3 times in high scoring matches. Wound up crowds with slow play. Didn't chuck himself around too much. 11/12 CHAMPS - knew the score and it meant keeping things cleaner. Off the boil as campaign hotted up at this level - needed to up it fast. Dropped but back after Steve Harper left. Not comanding in area on crosses. Left on bench. 12/13 - guaranteed seat on bench. FA Cup flop. Failed to challenge for gloves. 13/14 - settled for the quiet life with line of least resistance. 14/15 - reserve again and lacked ambition. 15/16 - not sighted east of Lancing. 16/17 - ditto. Made assistant to coach keepers in Prem set-up. Returned to Denmark in Sept '21 after 11 years at BHA.
in & out 17 - Vegard Forren
Arrived in March as stop gap central defender. The 29yo was a Norway international with Europa League experience. Played 10 years for Molde but once briefly on Southampton's books. Released in close season.
Jake Forster-Caskey - out 2017 (Championship)
Youngest ever teenager (16 and a little bit) to turn out for first team. Not big but man enough to compete in FL. Gus didn't rush him and included in new 10/11 develoment squad. Got England U17 credentials. World is his oyster if he can crack it. FAC5 app and looked Prem quality. 11/12 CHAMPS - gonna make the grade at some point in future. Sub on last day of 2011. Scored on full debut at New Year and on list for a reg place. Goal again in FAC3 on second start. Got crocked. 12/13 - Signed for another couple of seasons at least. Went on loan to Oxford in L2. 13/14 - tough to break thru into 1st 11? Variable displays. 14/15 - selected but needed to improve again - U21 call up. 15/16 - went on loan to MK Dons. 16/17 - on loan at Rotherham & then transferred to Charlton.
in 16 - Jiri Skalak - out 18 (Prem)
Big signing from Czech republic top div for wideman to help with 2016 Champ's promo push. Full international and 23yo also played in Europa League. Had previous with likes of Sparta Prague before going places on loan. Fair record of a goal per 6 matches on average. Loves England and likes blue & volt. Excellent dead ball delivery. 15/16 - played left flankers part in Championship promo push. 16/17 - not always first choice on left flank. Reluctance to go past defenders down wing. Defensive qualities tho. 17/18 Prem - in 25 man PL pool but not match-day 18 on bench. Merely cover for any two injured flankers higher in the pecking order. League Cup & FA Cup apps but not q-f. 0 Prem apps. 18/19 - pre-season transferred to Millwall.
in 16 - Steve SIDWELL - out 18 (Prem)
The veteran midfielder signed a full contract for 12 months following a successful loan spell during the 15-16 run-in. Had Prem credentials via Stoke and was once on Albion books briefly as a transfer prospect in Withdean days. Been around the block in past years at Arsenal, Reading, Chelsea, Villa, Fulham and Stoke, so knew the score. Came off bench and looked ok in blue as well. And was a winner to boot. 16/17 - selected for 20+ apps but had competition in centre of park. Not quite the status now of Prem career but used experience very well. Awarded Championship goal of the season. 17/18 Prem - in 25 man pool. Back surgery & ankle problem; out of training for most of season. 0 Prem apps. Retired to become asst youth coach (U16) and a 3rd club ambassador.
Inigo CALDERON - out 2016 (C'ship)
wingback; offered contract at end of 09/10. Nasty hip injury curtailed short term success. Returned as Godfather Gus fav boy. 10/11 L1; Got to capt side on day1. Done well and liked to be up and back on right flank. Couple of cracking goals and all. Pretty fair full-back, needed to be tight defensively. Red card spoiled decent record. Slight loss of form in mid season, although super late season goals. Regular selection and voted in lg1 players team. PoY candidate. 11/12 CHAMPS - gave it a right pop, to see how far it goes. 5 Yellows & ban. Keyhole surgery on knee. Stunning strike for first goal. Lost his place but returned. Stand-in captain. 12/13 - competition for place and second choice. Competitive and likes to go forward again. Sent off at Leeds in match 45. Contract extended. 13/14 - chased any vacant wingback pos. Sent off in LC shambles. FA cancelled red card. Useful replacement on either flank. 14/15 - tough to be picked regular. Sent off in Cup tie. Useful stand-in and also as captain. Converted to winger and scored goals! PoY. 15/16 - on bench sometimes. Became stand in left back. After playing days were over Calde became a coach in Spain and returned to BHA in June '23 as U18 head coach.
Adam Chicksen - out 2016 (C'ship)
left back; 21yo prospect signed in 2013 close season by managerless BHA's talent-spotter team in lieu of new head coach. Kid came from MK Dons and was delighted to be at the Amex. Well, who wouldn't be? 13/14 - had something to prove. Got a small chance and did ok. Sometimes on bench. 14/15 - only sub for left flank job. Went on loan at Gillingham & Fleetwood. 15/16 - went on loan at Orient & Gillingham again.
Gordon GREER - out 2016 (C'ship)
Central def; 29yo moved from Swindon for couple of hundred grand plus pocket change. Comes from Jockland and turned out for Kilmarnock once or twice. Made club capt. 10/11 L1; Sent off twice and bans. Thoroughly unprofessional and needed to rethink aggressive flaw. Injured calf, marked time with family issues. Was on bench, then on field. First choice, upped his game. No stroll in the park though. Generally commanded rearguard with solid displays. Red for a Glasgow kiss in run-in. In L1 players team. 11/12 CHAMPS - capable of leading L1 title winners in the Championship. Injured calf again. Struggled a tad with good attackers at this level. Sent off again. Plenty of gob but did ok. Abdominal probs. Poy runner-up. 12/13 - looked secure enough at BHA attempt to step up. Useful pairing with El-Abd. Trouble against good strikers in the air. Hamstring prob. Got contract extended. 13/14 - got into Scots squad. Muscle injury. Getting it done until red card. Over 40 apps, so Garcia loved him with Upson. 14/15 - got a new partner in Dunk and useful pairing thru season. Scotland cap. Niggling knee injury. First name on teamsheet. 10Y = ban. 15/16 - goes on & on and in Scot squad again. Suffered injury and some time out. Came back like GG does but mostly sat on bench. Greer still associated with BHA in later years, taking on the player loans admin role in Feb 2022.
in 16 - Jonah Ayunga - out 18
came in during Jan window from Dorchester to join U21 squad. A Dorset lad who had form as a striker in county games and Southern League. Joined Sligo & later Galway in Ireland, on loan for 2017 but broke a leg. On loan again, to Poole Town in '18.
in 16 - Henrik Bjordal - out 18
Future prospect joined in Jan window as part of U21 group. 18yo from Norway is an attacking midfielder or winger and signed for 2.5yr. Had experience in top div of homeland league and U21 caps. Went on loan to Gothenburg in '17. Part of U23 team promoted to PL2 Div1 in '18. Moved on to a Belgium club in summer 18.
in 16 - Oliver NORWOOD - out 19 (C'ship/Prem)
25yr old midfielder arrived in the week before season kick-off. A Northern Ireland international, it was maybe the right move to come here from Reading. 3yr deal for NI playmaker. Good grounding as youth at Man Utd but sees the Championship as his premier career. 16/17 - provided competition in mf for crucial season. Needed to step up to make mark as influencial player. On loan to Fulham for 17/18 & Sheff Utd in '18 - signed for SU, so left Jan '19. Part of Blades Prem promo squad.
in 15 - Elvis Manu - out 17 (Championship)
Young striker/winger from Feyenoord got a three year deal until age 25. Another one for the future with Holland U21 caps. Went on loan back to Dutch league in 2017. Never in Prem plans. Transferred to Turkish football.
in 15 - Connor GOLDSON - out 18 (C'ship/Prem)
Central defender from Shrewsbury penned a 4yr deal. 22yo northerner from Yorkshire who came thru ranks with the midlands club in lower leagues. Was in 14/15 PFA L2 side and Poy at Shrews. Required heart surgery. Not a Prem regular. Signed in Aug '15 to add to competition for places in rearguard and be part of Albion future. Was with Wolves as a kid but ended up on the channel coast via Shrewsbury. 15/16 - waited his chance and got it after Xmas. Got better with games. Good quality partnership with Dunk. 16/17 - came back from injury with League Cup & FAC app. Required surgery for heart problem - out rest of season. 17/18 Prem - full recovery and in 25 man pool as sub. Upped his game to feature. League & FA Cup apps. MoM on PL debut but very limited, total 2 (1) Prem apps. Bids came in from Rangers during spring of '18 and so he signed for the SPL side.
in 15 - Jamie MURPHY - out 18 (C'ship/Prem)
A winger from Scotland, playing for Motherwell but had last couple of seasons with Sheff Utd. 25yo got in for 1.5mill during the open Aug window. Wanted to play for national side and this was a step up towards that.
A Glaswegian with history in SPL and up north. Plenty of experience in attack and can perform on either flank. Scores goals and fancies the Championship to enhance Scot call up. 15/16 - straight red card & appeal dismissed. Had a knack of scoring but sometimes flatters to deceive. 16/17 - started on bench as impact player. Had good & bad days. 17/18 Prem - in PL 25 man pool but not on bench as impact sub. total 1 (3) Prem apps. League Cup app. Went on loan to Rangers for 2018 then signed permanently.
in 15 - Uwe Huenemeier - out 18. (C'ship/Prem)
During the Aug transfer window, Albion signed the German central defender from the Bundesliga second division on a 3yr deal. He had not played outside his native leagues but was a product of Borussia Dortmund and so thought to be of good value at English level2. 29yo from German outfit Paderborn for 1.4mill. Was capt there, although part of relegated team. Kicks it & heads it like you would expect from the land of super efficiency. Made the move to the UK south coast to improve his English & breast-stroke at least. 15/16 - Straight in to team... but got injured. First reserve in pecking order but stepped up again with good displays. Then injured again and went off the map. 16/17 - returned with League Cup & FA Cup apps. Proved capable of being top class as a Championship centre half. 17/18 Prem - in PL 25 man pool but unable to get a 1st 11 place. total 0 (1) Prem apps. League cup apps. FA Cup apps. Returned to Paderborn for next season.
in 15 - Bobby ZAMORA - out 16 (C'ship)
Ex BHA legend BZ returned to the club aged 35 to try and make a second impact at level two. Prem experience and on verges of England team before injury struck when in prime. Hoping to make it as a Championship striker but injuries cut that very short. Hung up boots. Returned to the club in summer 2018 as an ambassador.
in 15 - Jack Harper - out 17
19yo arrived via Real Madrid and is Scottish U19 striker. Left Spain with a knee injury but had hopes of flying high with Seagulls in future. Returned to Malaga in Jan '17 window. Only 25 U23 apps & 4 goals in 2 seasons. At various La Liga clubs thereafter.
in 15 - Vahid Hambo - out 17
came in mid July from Finland via FC Inter. 21yo striker scored lots of goals in homeland and penned a 2yr deal. Released after only making U23 squad. Unable to stay with the club's groups all progressing.
in 15 - Niki Maenpaa - out 18 (C'ship/Prem)
signed at start of pre-season to join goalkeeping union from Venlo. 30yo had international caps with Finland. Also played in France. Third choice for PL gloves. Had a desire to stop any more shots at Finns around the Amex for a few years. 15/16 - But only used in cup ties and as first reserve on bench. 16/17 - got the call when Stockdale injured but soon replaced & back on bench. LC & FAC apps. Sustained shoulder injury in FAC4 at Lincoln. 17/18 Prem - in PL 25 man pool but 3rd choice keeper. 0 Prem apps. League Cup & FA Cup apps. Left in summer 18.
in 15 - Liam Rosenior - out 18 (C'ship/Prem)
Ex Hull full back with lots of games for other sides like Fulham & Bristol City. Was U21 in days of yore and still had something to offer at this level. Capt for Cup ties with rotated squad. On fringes of PL group. Londoner who went to Reading and Ipswich before ending up at Hull. Arrived summer 16. Plenty of campaigning under his belt and just glad to be here, on the south coast again... instead of Torquay. 15/16 - played wide right and made a fist of it. Reverted to left back and did a job there too. Carried off - knee damage. Kept shirt on return. 16/17 - started as fullback. Out for 3 months injured. Made successful return. 17/18 Prem - in PL 25 man pool but not anticipated to raise game as he looked to coach eventually. Captain in League Cup & FA Cup apps. Only on PL fringes all season 1 (2) apps. Retired to become academy U23 asst coach. Left to coach for Derby in July '19.
in 14 - Sam Baldock - out 18 (C'ship/Prem)
Arrived prior to closing of the transfer window and became tenth signing of this totally revamped squad (included 3 on loan). Not classic no.9 for the Championship but very useful average of a goal per three games. 25yo came thru MK Dons, West Ham and Bristol City, where he was L1 top scorer for 13/14. Prolific marksman signed a 4yr contract. 14/15 - Found it difficult to net and merely looked an average front man as sole c-f. Used in wideman role. Knee injury cut short season. 15/16 - showed good touches as part of 442. Lack of goals an issue. Injury prone. 16/17 - began on the bench. Sent off. Became strike partner with Murray. Yet more injuries. 17/18 Prem - got 3yrs extra but required surgery on calf problem. In 25 man PL pool as homegrown and made bench but very difficult to be a first-choice sub. 0 (2) Prem apps. FA Cup apps but not q-f. Transferred to Reading in Aug '18. Sam Baldock rejoined BHA in Sept '24 to work as a coach in the pathway & development section under Gordon Greer.
in 14 - Adrian Colunga - out 15
The Spaniard signed from Getafe on a 2yr contract during Aug transfer window. Fee as undisclosed but as BHA were under FFP rules, we guess it didn't break the bank. 29yo striker was added to line-up with goal-scoring experience at top level in Spain. But went back there on loan to Granada. Failed to make squad and contract went in waste bin.
in 14 - Paddy McCourt - out 15 (C'ship)
A N Irish int, who had been on Celtic and Barnsley books, impressed to earn a 1yr contract after being on trial. Joined expanding ranks in m-f and rated as something of an attacking force. Sometimes came on as sub. Went on loan to Notts County.
in 14 - Danny Holla - out 16 (C'ship)
The flying 26yo Dutchman with a pedigree from good sides in Holland signed in August for three years. Came with endorsements as a versatile central midfielder capable of picking out a pass. Failed to hold a regular place and left the club in August '16.
in 14 - David STOCKDALE - out 17 (Championship)
Big signing to fill the vacant keeper position prior to final friendly before Championship kick-off. A first class pro of quality, with Prem experience at Fulham. Penned a 3yr deal as numero uno. 28yo had experience in Prem & Champ's. Was glove-hunted by Albion for big buckskin. Had Antti Niemi as g-k coach and didn't hesitate to join the upright framework of this progressive south coast club between the sticks. 14/15 Stats indicated some flaws as stopper - needed clean sheets! Broke finger - but lost weight! First choice... well, no competition. 15/16 - began to show useful performances as no.1. 16/17 - hoped 13 was the lucky one. Excellent stopper, although a few blunders with feet. Named in all-club Championship team. Runner up as BHA player of the year. Signed on for Birmingham.
in 14 - Chris O'Grady - out 17 (Championship)
Added to the squad in pre-season to fill gap in ranks of strikers. 28yo was previously at Barnsley. Had plenty of apps in lower league with Rotherham, Oldham, Rochdale & Wednesday. Loaned out for a while to Sheff Utd in 14/15 and 15/16 to Forest, also thru 16/17 to Burton. Released prior to BHA playing in the Prem.
in 14 - Aaron Hughes - out 15 (C'ship)
Came in July as Sami Hyypia's first signing to boost a depleted squad. 34yo was a very experienced defender. Northern Ireland int and ex-Prem c-d with Newcastle, Villa & Fulham. Hardly figured, even from bench.
in 14 - Nzuzi Toko - out 15
Joined at end of the Oscar Garcia season as p-o squad was due overhaul. Came from Swiss club Grasshoppers where 23yo Congolese had experience in central midfield. Was a U21 and also native DR Congo player. But hardly figured under Sami Hyypia and soon released by Chris Hughton in Jan '15.

Championship Squads 4-6

Falmer Years: 2014 - 2017 (seasons 4-6) Championship.
Year4 Squad, 2014-15 - fifth from bottom.
There was a significant change of personnel during and at end of '13/14 term - see Year3 below.
Out - Kuszczak, Brezovan, Hoskins, Rodriguez, Orlandi, Ulloa, Upson, David and Dickenson.
Sami Hyypia became the third BHA manager, in the close season, prior to Albion's fourth campaign at the Amex. In conjunction with chairman Tony Bloom and head of ops David Burke, he had several positions to fill with new players as time ran out through pre-season training.
Keepers - Casper Ankergren, Chris Walton. Defenders - Bruno, Gordon Greer, Lewis Dunk, Inigo Calderon, Adam Chicksen, Vita Maksimenko.
Midfield - Dale Stephens, Andrew Crofts, Kemy Agustien, Jake Forster-Caskey, Rohan Ince. Forwards - Craig Mackail-Smith, Kazenga LuaLua, Solly March, Will Buckley, Shamir Fenelon.
Pre-season; The first player introduced by Burke after abortive play-off s-f was Nzuzi Toko a holding midfielder. He was eventually followed by experienced c-d Aaron Hughes (Hyppia's first signing) and later in time for friendlies, striker Chris O'Grady (Barnsley). Then a big 1mill signing, David Stockdale a keeper from Fulham.
August; After one week, Buckley went to Sunderland. In week2, midfielder Joao Carlos Teixeira (Liverpool) penned a year long loan. Then two academy kids, defender Glen Rea & m-f Charlie Harris, also joined the first team squad. In week3, two midfielders; Danny Holla joined from Holland and Paddy McCourt (Barnsley). Then l-b Joe Bennett (Aston Villa) came in on season-long loan.
In the week prior to Aug window shut, striker Adrian Colunga came from Spain. Also m-f Gary Gardner (Villa) was added on 4mth loan. Then followed Sam Baldock a striker from Bristol City.
In early November Ali Al-Habsi (gk) came in on emg loan from Wigan, also Elliott Bennett returned on loan (Norwich) and c-d Greg Halford (Forest). Before the loan deadline at end of Nov, striker Darren Bent came in for a month from Villa. But CMS & COG went out on loan at the same time.
January; after New Year and Chris Hughton taking charge, striker Leon Best came in on loan from Blackburn. At the transfer window, Beram Kayal arrived from Celtic to bolster midfield. In the loan window, winger Emmanuel Ledesma joined from Middlesbro short term. Also Mustapha Carayol from the same club.

1 Al-Habsi (Gk short loan), 2 Bruno, 3 Greer, 4 Hughes, 5 Dunk, 6 Stephens (injured), 7 Colunga (out on loan), 8 Crofts (injured), 9 Baldock, 10 Agustien, 11 O'Grady, 12 Mackail-Smith, 13 Stockdale (Gk), 14 Calderon, 15 Chicksen, 16 Ankergren (Gk), 17 Teixeira (on loan), 18 Forster-Caskey, 19 Gardner (on short loan) then Best (on loan), 20 McCourt (out on loan), 21 Maksimenko (out on loan), 22 Holla, 23 Fenelon (out on loan), 24 Ince, 25 LuaLua, 26 Rea, 27 March (injured), 28 Toko (left), then Kayal, 29 Harris, 30 Buckley (transferred) then J Bennett (on loan), 31 Walton (Gk), 32 E Bennet (on short loan) then Ledesma (on short loan), 33 Halford (on loan), 34 Carayol (on short loan), 39 Bent (on short loan).

Year5 Squad, 2015-16 Champ's p-os
Out - Mackail-Smith, Hughes, Agustien, McCourt, Maksimenko, Fenelon.
Keepers - Stockdale, Walton - out on loan, Ankergren. Defenders - Bruno, Greer, Dunk, Chicksen, Calderon.
Midfield - Stephens, Crofts, Forster-Caskey, Holla, Ince, Kayal. Forwards - Baldock, O'Grady, LuaLua, March, Colunga.
New signings - Tomer Hemed (Almeria - striker), Liam Rosenior (Hull - fullback), Niki Maenpaa (Venlo - keeper), Gaetan Bong (Wigan - fullback), Vahid Hambo (FC Inter - striker), Jack Harper (Real Madrid - striker), Bobby Zamora (QPR - striker), Uwe Huenemeier (Paderborn - cent def), Jamie Murphy (Sheff Utd - winger), Connor Goldson (Shrewsbury - cent def), Elvis Manu (Feyenoord - striker).
Nov '15 loan window - James Wilson (Man U - striker), Rajiv La Parra (Wolves - winger).
Jan '16 window - Richie Towell (Dundalk - m-f), Liam Ridgewell (Portland - cent -def), Anthony Knockaert (Liege - winger), Steve Sidwell (Stoke - m-f), Henrik Bjordal (Aalesunds - winger), Jonah Ayunga (Dorchester - striker), Jiri Skalak (Mlada Boleslav - striker)

1 Maenpaa (GK), 2 Bruno, 3 Greer, 4 Huenemeier (injured), 5 Dunk, 6 Stephens, 7 Kayal, 8 Crofts (out on loan), 9 Baldock (injured), 10 Hemed, 11 O'Grady (out on loan), 12 Bong (injured), 13 Stockdale (GK), 14 Calderon, 15 Murphy, 16 Ankergren (GK), 17 Goldson, 18 Forster-Caskey (out on loan), 19 Manu (out on loan), 20 March (Injured), 21 Wilson (on loan), 22 Holla, 23 Rosenior (injured), 24 Ince (out on loan), 25 Zamora, 26 Rea (out on loan), 27 Colunga (left), then La Parra (left), then Knockaert, 28 Chicksen (out on loan), 29 Towell, 30 LuaLua, 31 Walton (GK out on loan), 32 , 33 Ridgewell (on loan), 36 Sidwell (on loan), 38 Skalak

Year6 Squad 2016-17 Champ's runners-up
out - Greer, Calderon, Crofts, Chicksen, Zamora, Rea. Holla left after pre-season.
out on loan - O'Grady, Forster-Caskey (transferred), Walton (gk), Manu, LuaLua
new signings - Steve Sidwell (mf - Stoke), Ben Hall (U23, cd - Motherwell), Glenn Murray (striker - Bournemouth loan), Oliver Norwood (mf - Reading).
Youngsters Rob Hunt, Sam Adekugbe (Vancouver loan) and Ben White were added to the squad from U23s.
August; before the transfer window shut, Shane Duffy (c-d - Blackburn) and Sebastian Pocognoli (lb - WBA loan) arrived.
In the Jan window, Forster-Caskey transferred to Charlton, LuaLua went on loan to QPR, Hunt to Oldham & Ince to Swindon. Defender Fikayo Tomori came in on loan from Chelsea, while striker Chuba Akpom arrived on loan from Arsenal. Glenn Murray signed permanently.
At beginning of March cent-def Vegard Forren signed as a stop gap.

1 Maenpaa (gk), 2 Bruno, 3 Bong, 4 Huenemeier, 5 Dunk, 6 Stephens, 7 Kayal, 8 Skalak, 9 Baldock, 10 Hemed, 11 Knockaert, 12 Pocognoli (on loan), 13 Stockdale (gk), 14 Sidwell, 15 Murphy, 16 Ankergren (gk), 17 Murray, 18 Goldson (injured), 19 Manu (loaned), 20 March, 21 Norwood, 22 Holla (left) then Duffy, 23 Rosenior (injured), 24 Ince (loaned), 25 Forren, 26 , 27 Tomori (on loan), 28 Akpom (on loan), 29 Towell, 30 LuaLua (loaned), 42 Hunt (loaned), 43 White, 44 Adekugbe (on loan)
* * * * *

Oscar Garcia

Falmer Years - 2013-14 Championship, Season3.
More Spanish influence.
A reserved man by all accounts, 40yo Garcia from Catalonia took Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv from no-hopers to champions in fine style during one season there. He was headhunted by BHA and it was an open secret that he would replace Gus Poyet prior to pre-season. Garcia's m.o. was 433 and an exponent of Johan Cruyff's method of winning with Barcelona. He won major hons with them, including 4 La Liga titles as a player.
Supposedly more of a coach than all-round manager, Oscar was quite a taskmaster as motivator and man manager. He was previously youth coach at the Nou Camp, having enjoyed that successful career as a Barca midfielder.
He said, 'my obsession is to attack and have the ball as many times as possible.' Some fans thought the football ponderous & boring but Albion got to another p-o s-f and probably over-achieved with an injury ravaged squad. Oscar Garcia deserved full credit for making a tough season into a launch pad for the future.

Gus Poyet

Falmer Years - 2011-13 Championship, Seasons 1-2.
Home from home in city by the sea.
Seagulls Chairman Tony Bloom took over the hot seat when BHA club saviour Dick Knight became Life President in 2009. Tony was a maths wizard and could see the club he long supported, struggling with basic arithmetic at Withdean - so decided to crunch some huge numbers. With the team floundering in League1, Bloom elected to take a calculated risk, by making highly-regarded coach Gustavo Poyet manager - for his very first job as numero uno.
In his initial season '9/10, Poyet laid foundations for a promotion push the following term. Tony soon signed Gus up for much more and Brighton duly strolled to promotion as L1 champions for '10/11, thus further enhancing credentials of the impressive young Uruguayan talent.
Falmer next became home and Poyet spent a few million of Bloom's squad-pot in pre-season of '11/12, with an aim of establishing asap in the Championship at very least. He done good and BHA were not far off play-off places come end of term. On completion of '12/13 Gus had duly taken BHA to a p-o spot. This was the clubs highest placing since before those gory years of the nineties at the Goldstone Ground.
Sensationally Poyet was suspended by Bloom in May, the week after defeat by Crystal Palace in the 2nd leg s-f at the Amex. He was given a hearing by the club, ref breaches of contract but sacked during last week of June just before players started pre-season training. He appealed but the club upheld its original decision. Whatever rights or wrongs prevailed, the guy will be a modern Albion legend. He was a man who spoke directly from the heart and firmly believed in his opinions, irrespective of arousing opposition or for that matter negative publicity.

CHAMPIONSHIP Ins & Outs '11 - '14

Falmer Years: 2011 - 2014 (seasons 1-3) Championship.
Tomaz Kuszczak - out 2014
keeper; 30yo from Poland signed 2y deal for BHA, second season at Falmer in '12. Ex Man Utd and Polish Int. Came via WBA in 2.1mill deal to MU in 2007. '12/13 - no.1 was in his hands. Looked like the keeper we needed & remained consistent. Mighta commanded six yard box better. '13/14 - v good stopper and coulda been stronger in physical clashes.
Peter Brezovan - out 2014
Keeper; '9/10 - December signing and straight into L1 action. Tall and athletic with good handling and reasonable kicking. Was at Swindon and comfortable with Gus. Very mixed form between good and bad apps. '10/11 L1; Fractured wrist in pre-season out 2 months then on bench. FA Cup goalie and Sub late in lg1 run-in - did ok. '11/12 CHAMPS - some issues apparent before taking hands-on approach at short notice. On bench, done good on late seasonal debut. Kept place with FA Cup run. Held gloves but kinda got beat once too many times. '12/13 - did not make bench early doors. Looked shaky on debut. Out with washing thereafter. Got contract extended - happy as no.2. '13/14 - made rare apps in lieu of TK.
in & out 2014 - David Rodriguez
Striker; came on free at Jan transfer window from Celta Vigo in La Liga. Had over 100 apps and scored 38 goals. Few apps.
Liam Bridcutt - out 2014
Midfield; 21yo initially signed for five months to fill in as defensive cmf. Product of Chelsea youth system and hailed from Reading. '10/11 L1; Second choice as holding m-f. Small bundle of energy and knocked about, got it done A-ok. Quality displays in role. Stunning volley for first pro goal and late match winner. Worthy signing at L1. '11/12 CHAMPS - regular pick for destroyer role but beware yellow peril. Stepped it up. Worked hard but tough to shine in average line-up. Then got loadsa mom awards and top man. 10+ cards. PoS and deserved to be. '12/13 - improved and did so again. Contract extended. Done well and easily held his own. 10 yellows. Scotland call up. PoS award again. '13/14 - coming into prime and a Scot int to boot. Had hernia surgery - groin prob. Club accepted transfer bid by Prem outfit Sunderland.
Adam EL-ABD - out 2014
Cent def; Fought his way back into '08/9 L1 side after injury and formation changes. Searched for the hero inside himself and at level. Not first choice and reached crossroads in career. '9/10 L1; Selected by default. Got it together - fighting displays. Signed new deal and appreciated by GP. Returned from injury and Gus really liked him more. '10/11 L1; A-ok and kept shirt. 5 yellows. MoM more than once. Broken nose. Beware the Egyptian - got a goal too. Injured - thigh wound needed stitches. Excellent performances through season. 10 yellow cards - oh dear. Done hamstring but quick recovery. Voted PoY. Fractured foot - out for start of '11/12. CHAMPS - fits in with Latin hard man ethos but could he come back on top of his game? Became regular. Won an Egypt cap. '12/13 - was a revelation under Gus. Did the do and not bad for a guy under six feet tall. Ten yellows. Egypt call up. '13/14 - after an Egypt cap, needed to be first choice at club tho. Got a run of apps in lieu of Greer. Moved permanently to Bristol City.
Ashley BARNES - out 2014
Forward; '9/10 L1 - 20yo target man got in from Plymouth. Scored on debut and did ok as sub. Got more - nice finisher. '10/11 L1; Found it tough and needed to be quicker but goal ratio did improve. Injury niggles. Useful lg1 form and scored as impact player. 20 goal target reached. '11/12 CHAMPS - first choice for strike partner and delivered as sub. Struggled with this standard at times. Sent off - violent conduct. Did variety of roles and also defends. Leading scorer too. '12/13 - hey, Gus says lay off him! Got picked regularly and good in fits and starts. Had to be at best to impress and that meant scoring goals. Sent off twice. Long suspension. Contract extended. '13/14 - is another centre forward these days. Transferred to Burnley.
in 2013 - Kemy Agustien - out 2015
M-f; put pen to paper for 2 years after impressing coaches and scouts. Dutch U21 int who did on-loan spell with Birmingham before ending up at Swansea - 31 apps in Prem. Considered quality by Oscar Garcia. Only made 6+7 lg apps & 4 in cups. Suffered with injuries.
in 2013 - Matt Upson - out 2014
Initially came on loan from Prem-land cast-offs and slotted in easily to hold place in cent-def for a shot at play-offs. Good enough for an old man to be offered a years contract in the very tough Championship. Ex-England hero was expected to show experience against good strikers. First signing of the post-Poyet era. Easily got PoY for season but was snapped up by Leicester. BHA could not compete with Prem clubs.
in 2013 - Fernando ULLOA - out 2014 (C'ship/Prem)
During the end January window Brighton arranged a transfer with Spanish club Almeria for their Argentine striker (2mill). The 26yo was hailed as the target man we had been searching for. He got nearly one goal in two games and was top scorer in La Liga in last term with 29. On his debut he netted against Arsenal in FAC4 at the Amex. Had played for Castellon in Spain after three clubs in S America. Moved in 2010 to Almeria and got 48 goals in 102 apps. '12/13 - Looked big and awkward & jury out. Then hat trick hero. Took to the English game like an old centre forward. Needed right service. '13/14 - could play off another front man who supports. Straight red for high feet. Carried off - ankle prob. Useful at converting chances. Used in 451 on away trips - tough gig. Went to Leicester for 8million + appearance money. Came back on loan in 2018 PL Jan window as back up striker option. total 2 (8) Prem apps. Not offered another contract.
in 2012 - Stephen Dobbie - out 2013
SD came to Albion at the summer deadline, with the club attempting to get a very competitive squad. The 29yo Glaswegian scored 26 goals from 48 starts for Swansea and Blackpool - 6 from 10 on loan to Seasiders in '11/12. Quite short for a pro at 5ft8, he was not the targetman fans were expecting but knew the score ok at this level and slightly above. Got a three year contract for an undisclosed fee. Gus believed he would fit in and give BHA different attacking options. Oh dear, all wheels came off. He soon went off to Palace on loan and later permanently.
in 2012 - David Lopez - out 2014
Gus had a long day on 31Aug and got in a right-sided midfielder from Athletico Bilbao (La Liga in Spain) late in the evening. 29yo Lopez was not an English speaker but decided to come over after making over 150 apps for two Spanish clubs. He transferred there from Osasuna for six million euros in 2007. He accepted a one year deal at BHA and added quality to m-f positions. Popular with fans. Signed again for another year. Then released.
in 2012 - Andrea Orlandi - out 2014
At the Aug-Sept transfer deadline, Gus swooped for a left-sided creative midfielder he'd been after from Swansea. The fee was undisclosed. Orlandi is Spanish but played most footy in England/Wales for Swans - 72 apps mainly at lev2. 28yo AO joined on a 2year contract, adding to an increasing number of fellow countrymen. He speaks English well and knew the game here, so everything seemed to fit into place - was even a team-mate of Calderon when they were much younger. Made a useful contribution to the squad. Had injury probs.
in 2012 - Andrew CROFTS - out 2016*
Ex-Albion L1 Captain and midfield dynamo, Crofty left BHA at Withdean in 2010 for Norwich. He returned to slot straight into a Championship team hoping to beat last terms tenth pos. The 28yo from Kent was with Chelsea youth before joining Gillingham as a pro. Russ Slade snapped him up in 2009 at W'dean and he had 44 apps for BHA. There were 68 caps for Canaries and 23 for Wales. AC scored around thirty goals in career to date and useful to add more from midfield at any level. Long term injury probs and shadow of former self but regained fitness. Went on loan to Gillingham to get games. *In summer 2019 Crofts returned to BHA as U23 group player/coach. He became the U23s head coach in June '21 and part of the integral development from PL2 to the Prem. AC became first team coach in '23 and then as assistants to both BHA head coach and also for Wales in Aug '24.
Tommy Elphick - out 2012
Cent def; made a man of him in 4 terms of torment from third-tier strikers. '9/10 - half decent start but needed to be full on it - sent off for 2 yellows. Started again and got up to speed. Given a shot in the arm by Poyet and responded. Found top frontmen a handful and drifted off them, upped it and ok. PoY candidate and racked up nearly full apps. '10/11 L1; Done good. Dropped then ban for 5Y. Reg FA Cup apps. Got starts in lieu El-Abd and Greer. Done his best - difficult to be regular pick. Injured - torn ankle ligaments. '11/12 CHAMPS - out for season-long injury from second surgery. '12/13 - renewed contract for one year. Had a big job on to be first choice. Went to Bournemouth on eve of season.
in 2011 - VICENTE Rodriguez - out 2013
Plucked from the scrapheap of Valencia B team after notching 50 goals from over 300 apps in 11 years for the La Liga outfit. Chatted up by Gus, Tony Bloom and Ken Brown on a flying visit to the Amex from the Med in August. The 30yo Spaniard liked what he saw and said, 'si si senores.' A Spanish International with forty caps and been involved in Champions League and UEFA Cup. Potentially a massive return for the club from a proven Euro class act. Soon injured and spent a long time on sidelines. However Gus got him fit again for 2012 and we saw just what a class act we'd available. Busy and inventive but too clever by half for squad to read him. Further injuries severely curtailed second season apps. His potential was unused.
in 2011 - Craig Mackail-Smith (CMS) - out 2015
CM-S was with Peterboro, who got to the Championship (via L1 p-o's) care of his 35 goals in '10/11. Gus wanted him and at 27 was considered in his prime - Scottish cap to boot. BHA passed over 2.5 million in July to Posh, to bust our spending record wide open. CM-S was at London Road for four years and netted 80 goals in 185 apps. Previously he was with Dag&Red in the Conference - 38 goals from 106 apps. Craig had several interested parties for his services but he chose Brighton and Gus Poyet is the reason why - oh and we got a new stadium too. Didn't have the most productive of first campaigns, although maintained fitness throughout. Sometimes sub and asked to play wide but best facing goal and chasing. Injury in second year at the Amex prevented him getting back to form of old. Made 79+28 lg apps, 8+5 in cups and scored 21+3 goals.
in 2011 - Will BUCKLEY - out 2014
Spending one million pounds in June of the close season prior to the Amex opening, meant BHA gained our most expensive signing ever. Watford got the wad but 22yo Buckley had previous with Rochdale. Will could play as a winger or creative midfielder, scoring in either role. He didn't hesitate to sign for 3 years, remembering how Albion looked like a proper lev2 outfit away at Watford in the FA Cup of '10/11. Bit of a goal-getter and supersub '11/12. Couldn't hold a regular place and some average away performances to boot. Hamstring problems reduced the number of apps in second year. '12/13 - repayed some of big fee. But had more to offer. Kinda lost scoring touch. '13/14 - mighta aimed to be new Vicente. Oh dear, perhaps a hamstrung step too far. '14/15 - after day1 went to Sunderland for 2.5mill or so.
in 2011 - Will Hoskins - out 2014
During the '10/11 season, League1 leaders Albion went to Bristol Rovers and would have won 0-4 but for Will Hoskins. He scored twice for the West Country club and although they went down to Lg2, he netted twenty goals that season. It came a no surprise when Gus Poyet got him for Seagulls straight away, with a 500k wedge, rising to 800k if he did the biz. WH had experience at Watford and also been on loan to Forest and Millwall. Made scant apps '11/12 and went on loan to Sheff Utd. The following year he busted a knee and that finished it. Released following many injury probs.
in 2011 - Craig Noone - out 2012
New Year '11 transfer window signing from Plymouth. Got 3 year contract and about 300k spent. 23yo from Merseyside played non-league at Stockport. Two footed and played on either flank. Not too many regular apps in last two terms. Liked to dribble thru and cut inside. Listened to Gus and changed impulsive ways. Came off bench to add flair. Something of a supersub game changer and popular with fans. Massive step up in Championship but coped. Needed end product for all that dribbling. Regular sub when not starting. Had hamstring probs. Needed more apps. Signed for Cardiff for supposed seven figure sum.

Championship Squads 1-3

Falmer Years: 2011 - 2014 (seasons 1-3)
A new beginning at the Amex in the Championship.
Year1 Squad, 2011-12 - mid table finish.
From the previous lg1 title-winning squad, Gus Poyet retained -
keepers, Casper Ankergren, Peter Brezovan, Michael Poke and Mitch Walker. Club Captain Gordon Greer, long serving pair Tommy Elphick and Adam El-Abd (both injured), together with wonder-kid Lewis Dunk and youngster Steve Cook, made up heart of defence. The champions lg1 full-backs, Inigo Calderon and Marcos Painter were again first choices, supported initially by asst mngr Mauricio Taricco.
In cent midfield, Gary Dicker, Liam Bridcutt and Matt Sparrow were rejoined by old hand Alan Navarro. On the wings, Craig Noone and Jamie Smith were bolstered by LuaLua re-signing (on loan from Newcastle) and million pound man Will Buckley via Watford. Up front, Gus spent money on Will Hoskins (Bristol R 500k) and Craig Mackail-Smith (Peterboro 2.5mill) to assist Ashley Barnes.
August; Romain Vincelot, a utility player, came in from Dag&Red. Just into the new season, GP signed playmaker Ryan Harley care of Swansea.
At end of August, Gus got Vicente Rodriguez on a free from Valencia - a huge result for an experienced big name from Spain.
Toward end of October, Poyet got Chilean international defender Gonzalo Jara Reyes on short loan from West Brom. Next obtained services of veteran keeper Steve Harper from Newcastle on short loan. Soon after, striker Billy Paynter loaned to us via Leeds. LuaLua signed permanently in November.
For 2012 Gus got goalie David Gonzalez (ex-Man C) on a free. Just before the Jan 2012 transfer widow shut, target-man Sam Vokes appeared on loan from Wolves. Jara Reyes returned and also fullback Joe Mattock came in on loan from WBA. During February, Gus swooped for Man City m-f pair, Abdul Razak and Gai Assulin on loan to bolster quality options for selection.
In the development squad, Ex-Spurs youth teamer, Yaser Kasim, Norwegian Torbjorn Agdestein and U18 star Jake Forster-Caskey were now lining up with Dutch youngster Roland Bergkamp. Others to make the grade included Grant Hall, ex-Chelsea pair Anton Rodgers and Ben Sampayo, plus George Barker. At New Year, youngster Ben Dickenson came in from Dorchester.

1 Brezovan (gk), 2 Mattock (on loan), 3 Greer, 4 Elphick (injured), 5 Dunk, 6 El-Abd, 7 Hoskins (loaned), 8 Navarro, 9 Barnes, 10 Sparrow, 11 Noone, 12 Mackail-Smith, 13 Paynter (on loan) then Assulin (o-l), 14 Calderon, 15 Vicente Rodriguez, 16 Ankergren (gk), 17 Harley, 18 Dicker (injured), 19 Poke (gk loaned), 20 Vincelot, 21 Harper (o-l gk) then Gonzalez (gk) , 22 Painter (injured), 23 Agdestein, 24 Smith (left) then Vokes (o-l), 25 LuaLua, 26 Bridcutt (PoY), 27 Taricco, 28 Cook (transferred) then Razak (o-l), 29 Bergkamp (loaned), 30 Buckley, 31 Hall, 32 Kasim, 33 Barker, 34 Sampayo, 35 Forster-Caskey, 36 Jara Reyes (on loan), 37 Walker (gk), 38 , 39 Dickenson, 44 Rodgers.

Year2 Squad, 2012-13 Champ's p-os
Many players already had ongoing contracts so Poyet only released -
Navarro and keepers, Poke, Walker and Gonzalez.
In the close season he got Polish g-k Tomasz Kuszczak (ex Man U) and Spanish fullback Bruno Saltor Grau (ex Valencia). Then at pre-season, left back Wayne Bridge (Man C) arrived for season loan.
During early August, Andrew Crofts returned from Norwich. Yaser Kasim, Jake Forster-Caskey and Roland Bergkamp went out on loan. After friendlies finished Tommy Elphick transferred to Bournemouth and Grant Hall signed for Spurs.
At Aug xfer window Craig Noone went to Cardiff. But Gus got four in; 3 midfielders - Andrea Orlandi (Swansea), David Lopez (Bilbao) and Dean Hammond (loan So'ton). He also got striker Stephen Dobbie (Swansea).
In new year Matt Sparrow signed for Crawley. Before the '13 xfer window shut, target-man Leonardo Ulloa signed from Almeria in Spain. On the last day, cent-def Matthew Upson arrived on loan from Stoke

1 Brezovan (gk), 2 Bruno, 3 Greer, 4 Elphick (transfer) then Hammond (loan), 5 Dunk, 6 El-Abd, 7 Hoskins (injured), 8 Crofts, 9 Barnes (banned), 10 Sparrow (left) then Dobbie, 11 Noone (transfer) then Orlandi, 12 Mackail-Smith (injured), 13 , 14 Calderon, 15 Vicente (injured), 16 Ankergren (gk), 17 Harley (loaned), 18 Dicker, 19 Ulloa, 20 Vincelot (left) then Upson (loan), 21 David Lopez, 22 Painter (injured/loaned), 23 Agdestein, 24 , 25 LuaLua, 26 Bridcutt (PoS), 27 , 28 Bridge (loan), 29 Kuszczak (gk), 30 Buckley, 33 Barker (loaned), 35 Forster-Caskey, 38 Dickenson (loaned)

Year3 Squad, 2013-14 Champ's p-os
At end of '12/13 Vicente, Painter and Dicker were released. El-Abd signed a new contract and eventually Lopez did too. Upson got a year's deal.
David Burke (Head of Ops) signed Adam Chicksen a 21yo left back prospect from MK Dons. In pre-season m-f Kemy Agustien came here on a free from Swansea. Several lads were included from the dev squad. For first home game, m-f Keith Andrews signed on-loan from Bolton. Later Stephen Ward (lb) also came on-loan from Wolves.
Before close of the Aug loan window, winger Craig Conway signed from Cardiff until end '13. An emergency loan for a striker gotten in Leroy Lita (Swansea) in mid October.
During Jan '14, Barnes, El-Abd & Maksimenko transferred and striker Jonathan Obika (Spurs) came in on loan. Before the window closed Bridcutt also transferred. M-f Dale Stephens signed from Charlton, along with striker David Rodriguez out of La Liga. Before end of Feb, Jesse Lingard signed on loan from Man Utd.

g-k; 29 Kuszczak, 1 Brezovan, 16 Ankergren. def; 2 Bruno, 14 Calderon, 5 Dunk, 3 Greer, 6 El-Abd (left), 20 Upson, 15 Chicksen, 28 Maksimenko (left), 17 Ward (loan). m-f; 8 Crofts (injured), 11 Orlandi, 21 Lopez, 26 Bridcutt (left), 10 Agustien, 18 Forster-Caskey, 38 Ince, 4 Andrews (loan). strikers; 7 Hoskins, 12 Mackail-Smith, 19 Ulloa, 9 Barnes (left), 30 Buckley, 25 LuaLua, 27 March, 22 Barker then Obika, 24 Dickenson, 23 Conway (loan), 35 Lingard (loan), 44 Lita (loan)
* * * * *

CHAMPIONSHIP Stats

Falmer Years: 2011 - 2017 Championship, Seasons 1-6.
Brighton were unbeaten at the Amex for a fantastic start to our inaugral year at Falmer in the Championship for 11/12. In a bizarre case of coincidence we initially hosted Doncaster at the brand new stad, the last team we'd hosted at the old Goldstone Ground in '97.
Not just content with heading the league table at end of August, we'd also already disposed of Gillingham and Sunderland for summer-nights knockout ties in the Community Stadium (see Cup competitions below).
Gates of 16k & 17k for those brilliant opening rounds under floodlights was sure to be bettered once that incredible draw for League Cup R3 was announced. On the night nearly 22k attended for Liverpool - an Amex sell-out.
Talk about living the dream, although fourteen years of waiting for a state of the art facility was more than enough nightmare for long suffering Albion supporters.

16/17 - Per Quarter Stats, season6.
Q4 - H = 4 0 1, A = 3 1 2 . Qtr totals 22 pts, F16 A9 gd+7. 4 clean-shts and 3 fts. 2.00pt/gm. 4 home games unbeaten run.
Q3 - H = 4 1 1, A = 2 1 3 . Qtr totals 20 pts, F20 A17 gd+3. 3 clean-shts and 2 fts. 1.66pt/gm. 5 home games unbeaten run.
Q2 - H = 5 1 0, A = 4 1 0 . Qtr totals 29pts, F22 A5 gd+17. 7 clean-shts and 1 fts. 2.63pt/gm. 6 home games unbeaten run.
Q1 - H = 4 1 1, A = 2 3 1 . Qtr totals 22pts, F16 A9 gd+7. 7 clean-shts and 4 fts. 1.83pt/gm. 3 home games unbeaten run.
Q+ - H = 17 3 3, A = 11 6 6. Full total 93pt, F74 A40 gd=+34. 21 clean-shts and 10 fts. 2.02pt/gm

15/16 - Per Quarter Stats, season5.
Q4 - H = 3 3 0, A = 4 1 0 . Qtr totals 25 pts, F23 A8 gd+15. 4 clean-shts and 1 fts. 2.27pt/gm. 6 home games unbeaten run.
Q3 - H = 4 0 2, A = 2 2 2 . Qtr totals 20 pts, F18 A11 gd+7. 6 clean-shts and 5 fts. 1.67pt/gm. 4 home games unbeaten run.
Q2 - H = 3 1 1, A = 0 6 0 . Qtr totals 16pts, F13 A13 gd0. 3 clean-shts and 4 fts. 1.45pt/gm. 4 home games unbeaten run.
Q1 - H = 5 1 0, A = 3 3 0 . Qtr totals 28pts, F18 A10 gd+8. 4 clean-shts and 1 fts. 2.33pt/gm. 6 home games unbeaten run.
Q+ - H = 15 5 3, A = 9 12 2. Full total 89pts, F72 A42 gd=+30. 17 clean-shts and 11fts. 1.93pt/gm

14/15 - Per Quarter Stats, season4.
Q4 - H = 0 2 3, A = 1 2 3 . Qtr totals 7 pts, F4 A11 gd-7. 4 clean-shts and 7 fts. 0.63 pt/gm. 1 home game unbeaten run.
Q3 - H = 4 0 2, A = 2 2 2 . Qtr totals 20pts, F16 A11 gd+5. 6 clean-shts and 5 fts. 1.66pt/gm. 3 home games unbeaten run.
Q2 - H = 1 3 2, A = 0 3 2 . Qtr totals 9pts, F13 A18 gd-5. 1 clean-shts and 2 fts. 0.81pt/gm. 3 home games unbeaten run.
Q1 - H = 1 3 2, A = 1 2 3 . Qtr totals 11pts, F11 A14 gd-3. 3 clean-shts and 5 fts. 0.91pt/gm. 4 home games unbeaten run.
Q+ - H = 6 8 9, A = 4 9 10. Full total 47pts, F44 A54 gd=-10. 14 clean-shts and 19fts. 1.02pt/gm

13/14 - Per Quarter Stats, season3.
Q4 - H = 2 1 2, A = 2 3 1. Qtr totals 16 pts, F16 A12 gd+4. 3 clean-shts and 4 fts. 1.45 pt/gm. 3 home games unbeaten run.
Q3 - H = 4 2 1, A = 2 1 2. Qtr totals 21 pts, F11 A7 gd+4. 7 clean-shts and 3 fts. 1.75pt/gm. 4 home games unbeaten run.
Q2 - H = 2 2 1, A = 4 1 1. Qtr totals 21 pts, F17 A9 gd+8. 5 clean-shts and 1 fts. 1.90 pt/gm. 2 home games unbeaten run.
Q1 - H = 2 2 2, A = 1 3 2. Qtr totals 14 pts, F11 A12 gd=-1. 5 clean-shts and 4 fts. 1.16 pt/gm. 4 home games unbeaten run.
Q+ - H = 10 7 6, A = 9 8 6. Full total 72pts, F55 A40 gd=+15. 20 clean-shts and 12fts. 1.56pt/gm

12/13 - Per Quarter Stats, season2.
Q4 - H = 3 2 0, A = 2 2 2. Qtr totals 19 pts, F19 A8 gd+11. 5 clean-shts and 3 fts. 1.72 pt/gm. 5 home games unbeaten run.
Q3 - H = 4 1 1, A = 2 3 1. Qtr totals 22 pts, F19 A12 gd+7. 5 clean-shts and 1 fts. 1.83 pt/gm. 5 home games unbeaten run.
Q2 - H = 2 4 0, A = 1 3 1. Qtr totals 16 pts, F16 A15 gd+1. 3 clean-shts and 2 fts. 1.45 pt/gm. 6 home games unbeaten run.
Q1 - H = 2 2 2, A = 3 1 2. Qtr totals 18 pts, F15 A8 gd=+7. 4 clean-shts and 6 fts. 1.50 pt/gm. 3 home games unbeaten run.
Q+ - H = 11 9 3, A = 8 9 6. Full total 75pts, F69 A43 gd=+26. 17 clean-shts and 12fts. 1.63pt/gm

11/12 - Per Quarter Stats, season1.
Q4 - H = 2 3 1, A = 0 2 3. Qtr totals 11 pts, F10 A16 gd=-6. 3 clean-shts and 4 fts. 1.00 pt/gm. 3 home games unbeaten run.
Q3 - H = 4 2 0, A = 2 3 1. Qtr totals 23 pts, F19 A10 gd=+9 5 clean-shts and 2 fts. 1.91 pt/gm. 6 home games unbeaten run.
Q2 - H = 3 0 2, A = 1 1 4. Qtr totals 13 pts, F06 A11 gd=-5. 4 clean-shts and 7 fts. 1.18 pt/gm. 3 home games unbeaten run.
Q1 - H = 2 3 1, A = 3 1 2. Qtr totals 19 pts, F17 A15 gd+2. 4 clean-shts and 2 fts. 1.58 pt/gm. 4 home games unbeaten run.
Q+ - H = 11 8 4, A = 6 7 10. Full total 66pts, F52 A52 gd=0. 16 clean-shts and 15fts. 1.43pt/gm.
* * * * *

Championship clubs per season: see Falmer Years tab for A-Z list of previous encounters, shown with C.
Aston Villa 6, Barnsley 1-3 & 6, Birmingham 1-6, Blackburn 2-6, Blackpool 1-4, Bolton 2-5, Bournemouth 3-4, Brentford 4-6,
Bristol City 1-2 & 5-6, Burnley 1-3 & 5, Burton 6,
Cardiff 1-2 & 4-6, Charlton 2-5, Coventry 1, Crystal Palace 1-2, Derby 1-6, Doncaster 1 & 3, Fulham 4-6, Huddersfield 2-6,
Hull 1-2 & 5, Ipswich 1-6, Leeds 1-6, Leicester 1-3,
Middlesboro 1-5, Millwall 1-4, MK Dons 5, Newcastle 6, Norwich 4 & 6, Nott'm Forest 1-6, Peterboro 1-2, Portsmouth 1, Preston 5-6,
QPR 3 & 5-6, Reading 1 & 3-6, Rotherham 4-6, Sheff Wed 2-6, So'ton 1,
Watford 1-4, West Ham 1, Wigan 3-4 & 6, Wolves 2 & 4-6, Yeovil 3

C'ship shirt no.s

Falmer Years 2011 to 2017 . Seasons 1-6

shirt no.s: at time player signed
1 Brezovan (gk) Al Habsi (gk) Maenpaa (gk) . 2 Mattock Bruno . 3 Greer
4 Elphick Hammond Andrews Hughes Huenemier . 5 Dunk . 6 El-Abd Stephens
7 Hoskins Colunga . 8 Navarro Crofts . 9 Barnes Baldock
10 Sparrow Dobbie Hemed . 11 Noone Orlandi O'Grady . 12 Mackail-Smith Pocognoli
13 Paynter Assulin Stockdale (gk) . 14 Calderon . 15 Vicente Chicksen Murphy
16 Ankergren (gk) . 17 Harley Ward Teixeira Goldson Murray . 18 Dicker
19 Poke (gk) Ulloa Gardener Best Manu . 20 Vincelot Upson McCourt . 21 Harper (gk) Lopez Wilson Norwood
22 Painter Obika Holla Duffy . 23 Agdestein Conway Fenelon Rosenior . 24 Smith Vokes
25 LuaLua Zamora Forren . 26 Bridcutt Rea . 27 Taricco March La Parra Knockaert Tomori
28 Cook Razak Bridge Maksemenko Toko Kayal Akpom . 29 Bergkamp Kuszczak (gk) Harris Towell . 30 Buckley J Bennett
31 Hall Walton (gk) . 32 Kasim E Bennett Ledesma . 33 Barker Halford Ridgewell
34 Sampayo Carayol . 35 Forster-Caskey Lingard . 36 Rayes Sidwell
37 Walker (gk) . 38 Ince Skalak . 39 Dickenson Bent
40 . 41 . 42 Hunt . 43 White . 44 Rodgers Lita Adekugbe

Championship team that finished the 16/17 season as runners up.
Stockdale (gk) Bruno (Rosenior) Tomori Dunk Pocognoli Knockaert Stephens Sidwell Murphy (March) Baldock (Hemed) Myrray

CUP Competitions

Falmer Years: 2011 - 2025, seasons 1-14
Annual statistical record . See FY tab (via main stats - access above) for list of previous encounters.

Europa League:
'24 last 16: Roma 1-0 (H) 4-0 (A)
'23 group: 1 Brighton 13, 2 Marseille 11, 3 Ajax 5, 4 AEK 4
AEK Athens 2-3 (H) 0-1 (A), Marseille 2-2 (A) (H), Ajax 2-0 (H) 0-2 (A)

FA Cup - shown with F in relevant FY season.
;25 r3 Norwich A 11/1/25
'24 r3 Stoke A 6/1/24 w 2-4 ~ Estupinan, Dunk, Pedro 2 . r4 Sheff Utd A 27/1 w 2-5 ~ Buonanotte, Pedro 3, Welbeck
r5 Wolves A 28/2 l 1-0
'23 r3 Middlesboro A 7/1/23 w 1-5 ~ Gross, Lallana, Mac Allister2, Undav . r4 Liverpool H 29/1 w 2-1 ~ Dunk, Mitoma
r5 Stoke A 28/2 w 0-1 ~ Ferguson . q-f Grimsby H 19/3 w 5-0 ~ Undav, Ferguson 2, March, Mitoma . Man Utd Wembley 23/4 l 6pen7 0-0 s-f
'22 r3 West Brom A 8/1/22 w 1-2 aet ~ Moder, Maupay . r4 Spurs A 5/2 L 3-1 ~ Bissouma.
'21 r3 Newport Co A 10/1/21 w 3pen4 1-1 aet ~ March . r4 Blackpool H 23/1 w 2-1 ~ Bissouma, Alzate . r5 Leicester A 10/2 l 1-0.
'20 r3 Sheff Wed H 4/1/20 l 0-1
'19 r3 B'mouth A 5/1/19 w 1-3 ~ Knockaert, Bissouma, Andone . r4 West Brom H 26/1 0-0, A 6/2 w 1-3 aet ~ Andone, Murray 2 .
r5 Derby H 16/2 w 2-1 ~ Knockaert, Locadia . q-f Millwall A 17/3 w 4-5 pens 2-2 aet ~ Locadia, March . s-f Man City Wembley 6/4 l 1-0.
'18 r3 Palace H 8/1/18 w 2-1 ~ Stephens, Murray . r4 Middlesbro A 27/1 w 0-1 ~ Murray . r5 Coventry H 17/2 w 3-1 ~ Locadia, Goldson, Ulloa .
q-f Man Utd A 17/3 l 2-0
'17 r3 MK Dons H 7/1/17 w 2-0 ~ Kayal, Hemed . r4 Lincoln A 28/1 l 3-1 ~ Towell
'16 r3 Hull A 9/1/16 l 1-0
'15 r3 Brentford A 3/1/15 w 2-0 ~ Dunk, O'Grady . r4 Arsenal H 24/1l 2-3 ~ O'Grady, Baldock
'14 r3 Reading H 5/1/14 w 1-0 ~ Crofts . r4 Port Vale A 25/1 w 3-1 ~ Ince, March, Obika . r5 Hull H 17/2 d 1-1 ~ Ulloa, r5r A 24/2 l 2-1 ~ Ulloa
'13 r3 Newcastle H 5/1/13 w 2-0 ~ Orlandi, Hoskins . r4 Arsenal H 26/1 l 2-3 ~ Barnes, Ulloa
'12 r3 Wrexham H 7/1/12 d 1-1 ~ Forster-Caskey, r3r Wrexham A 18/1 d 1-1 ~ Barnes - BHA win 5-4 on pens aet .
r4 Newcastle H 28/1 w 1-0 ~ Buckley . r5 Liverpool A 18/2 l 6-1 ~ LuaLua

EFL Cup - shown with L in relevant FY season.
'24 r2 Crawley H 27/8/24 w 4-0 ~ Adingra Sarmiento Webster O'Mahony . r3 Wolves H 17/9 w 3-2 ~ Baleba Adingra Kadioglu
r4 Liverpool H 30/10 l 2-3 ~ Adingra Lamptey
'23 r3 Chelsea A 27/8/23 l 1-0
'22 r2 Forest Green A 24/8/22 w 0-3 ~ Undav, Alzate, Ferguson . r3 Arsenal A 9/11 w 1-3 ~ Welbeck, Mitoma, Lamptey .
r4 Charlton A 21/12 l 4pen3 0-0
'21 r2 Cardiff A 24/8/21 w 0-2 ~ Moder, Zeqiri . r3 Swansea H 22/9 w 2-0 ~ Connolly 2 .
r4 Leicester A 27/10 l 4pen2 2-2 ~ Webster, Mwepu.
'20 r2 Portsmouth H 17/9/20 w 4-0 ~ Mac Allister, Jahanbakhsh, Bernardo, Gyokeres . r3 Preston A 23/9 w 0-2 ~ Jahanbakhsh, Mac Allister .
r4 Man Utd H 30/9 L 0-3
'19 r2 Bristol Rovers A 27/8/19 w 1-2 ~ Connolly, Murray . r3 Villa H 25/9 l 1-3 ~ Roberts.
'18 r2 Southampton H 28/8/18 l 0-1
'17 r2 Barnet H 22/8/17 w 1-0 ~ Tilley . r3 Bournemouth A 19/9 l 1-0
'16 r1 Colchester H 9/8/16 w 4-0 ~ Murphy 2, Baldock, Manu . r2 Oxford A 23/8 w 2-4 ~ Adekugbe, LuaLua, Manu, Hemed .
r3 Reading H 20/9 l 1-2 ~ Hemed
'15 r1 Southend A 11/8/15 w 0-1 ~ LuaLua (90+3) . r2 Walsall A 25/8 l 2-1 ~ Forster-Caskey (39)
'14 r1 Cheltenham H 12/8/14 w 2-0 ~ Dunk (79), Mackail-Smith (90) . r2 Swindon A 26/8 w 2-4 aet ~ Ince (10), Colunga (95), F-C 2 (pens 100, 120)
r3 Burton Albion A 24/9 w 0-3 ~ Ince (18), LuaLua (37), CMS (65) . r4 Tottenham A 28/10 l 2-0
'13 r1 Newport H 6/8/13 l 1-3 aet ~ Barnes (18)
'12 r1 Swindon A 14/8/12 l 3-0
'11 r1 Gillingham H 9/8/11 w 1-0 ~ Barnes (67 pen) . r2 Sunderland H 23/8 w 1-0 aet ~ Mackail-Smith (96) .
r3 Liverpool H 21/9 l 1-2 ~ Barnes (90 pen)

1997... to 2011. from Doncaster & Hereford, then homelessness... to Liverpool at the Amex.
Flashbacks... after the Goldstone Ground closure story broke.
Bill Archer promised the earth would move - to Waterhall?!? Soon after he sold the Goldstone in that headline grabbing midsummer murder of 1995.
Then it was go to Toads Hole Valley around Xmas, before he tried to chat up McAlpines in 1996 - who were already allied with Dick Knight's consortium in process of taking over control at BHA.
He resigned as Chairman, initially kept almost half of shares in our revamped club but also left us homeless from end of April 1997.
Well over a decade later...
Brighton were unbeaten at the Amex for a fantastic start to our inaugral year at Falmer in the Championship for 11/12. In a bizarre case of coincidence we initially hosted Doncaster at the brand new stad.
Not just content with heading the league table at end of August, we'd also already disposed of Gillingham and Sunderland for summer-nights knockout ties in the Community Stadium.
Gates of 16k & 17k for those brilliant opening rounds under floodlights was sure to be bettered once that incredible draw for League Cup R3 was announced.
On the night nearly 22k attended for Liverpool - an Amex sell-out.
Talk about living the dream, although fourteen years of waiting for a state of the art facility was more than enough nightmare for long suffering Albion supporters.
see also Falmer Diary, for much more info during that infamous Withdean Era.
and Clubs and Falmer Years; for Doncaster, Hereford and many other now remote lower league outfits like Hartlepool & York. These also include Rochdale & Darlington; clubs we played at the Goldstone when completing promotion years of 1972 & 1965. Or who remembers Burton at the Amex in Feb 2017 - on the 20th anniversary of Fans United.

* * * * *

Withdean Managers

WITHDEAN ERA 1999 - 2011
Chronological Background
Apr 1999 - Oct 2001 ~ Micky Adams
Oct 2001 - May 2002 ~ Peter Taylor
July 2002 - Oct 2002 ~ Martin Hinshelwood
Oct 2002 - Sep 2003 ~ Steve Coppell
Nov 2003 - Sep 2006 ~ Mark McGhee
Sep 2006 - May 2008 ~ Dean Wilkins
May 2008 - Feb 2009 ~ Micky Adams
Mar 2009 - Oct 2009 ~ Russell Slade
Nov 2009 - May 2011 ~ Gus Poyet

At end of April and start of May '22 it was 25 years since surviving as a League club -
here scroll down to Dick Knight, Martin Perry, Gory Years and Goldstone managers.
go to Withdean Era, Clubs & also see Falmer Diary & File for extra info.

Timeline.
There was a local south-coast derby on a Tuesday night in 2006, when Bournemouth came to town. The first time they visited in the 'modern' Withdean era was almost exactly five years before in 2001, while the world recovered from 9/11 and realised its implications. By coincidence that was also Brighton & Hove Albion's selective Centenary Match. Brighton duly won, to cement their intention to make a mark on history and attempt to gain a second consecutive promotion in three years at W'dean. Three games later...
Micky ADAMS quit as manager, to jump two levels instead of just one small step.
Peter TAYLOR bridged that gap but subsequently failed to take a giant quantum leap. A year later 2002...
Martin HINSHELWOOD was about to be relieved of duties by Dick Knight after eight losses on the bounce, with a 'ten and out' limit imminent.
Two years on from actually achieving 100 years history, by 2003 Albion were back in div2 (league 1) having further; lost those two 'new' bosses, had an abortive initiation to div1 (Championship) in '02/3 and were now about to wave goodbye to...
Steve COPPELL. Thus changing their third short-term manager in quick succession. September is remembered as the month war broke out in 1939 but for this 21st century equivalent, progress "in our time" was getting a tad ridiculous.
By the second coming of Bournemouth to our super sports complex in Feb '04, BHA was well on the way to reach a place in div2 play-offs. A 3-0 home victory certainly floated our boat. We had by then lashed...
Mark McGHEE to the helm and he steered a straight course to the Millennium Stadium.
Another three years went by and following a second sinking from the Championship and indifferent form in League 1, Brighton repeated their September phobia and dispensed with Mr McGhee's captaincy.
Dean WILKINS with no experience came straight in for bulk of '06/7 and hey, it was a learning curve alright. He done fairly good in '07/8 just failing to reach League1 p-os. But failure was subjective in others' eyes - for '08/9...
Micky ADAMS returned, with an agenda and a plan of his office at Falmer. Oh dear, he only lasted 9 months.
Russell SLADE was left to pick up the pieces from Mar '09 and keep us up in League1. He did too on the last day and got a contract to boot. Unfortunately '9/10 started as a mare and RS was gone in 8 months total.
First season chairman Tony Bloom, sifted a huge mail bag in Nov '09 and for his second appointment, gave...
Gus POYET his first manager's job. GP moved Albion into mid table mediocrity and set about putting plans into action for that last season at Withdean in '10/11. A couple of months into the season Albion hit top of the table and went on to gain promotion and then the league1 title with four fixtures to go.

Yr L Sesn . Pt . Po . Manager . status
01 2 99/00 . 67 . 11 . Adams
02 2 00/01 . 92 . 1(P) Adams - champions
03 1 01/02 . 90 . 1(P) Adams/Taylor - champions
04 C 02/03 . 45 . 23 . Hinshelwood/Coppell - rel
05 1 03/04 . 77 . 4(P) Coppell/McGhee - play-off winners
06 C 04/05 . 51 . 20 . McGhee
07 C 05/06 . 38 . 24 . McGhee - rel
08 1 06/07 , 52 . 18 . McGhee/Wilkins
09 1 07/08 . 69 . 07 . Wilkins
10 1 08/09 . 52 . 16 . Adams/Slade
11 1 09/10 . 59 . 13 . Slade/Poyet
12 1 10/11 . 95 . 1(P) Poyet - champions

Y1-3 Micky Adams & Peter Taylor - League Two & One.
Years 1-3 were sensational when seen in the light of a decade of playing league football at a place like Withdean sports complex. Adams first sought consistency where previously this had not been possible at the Goldstone and Priestfield. BHA's homecoming and new squad began a process of steady improvement in standard, based on what had gone before in lg2 (div3). In 99/0 after a useful opening 3 months, things slipped over the winter period as we bobbed about adrift in mid table. A late unbeaten run to end of first season, lifted the club from anonimity to mediocrity. The following two terms can conventionally be considered successful for Brighton. So much that an incredible rare double promotion was achieved. In 00/1 Adams immediately kicked off a promo push with an enhanced skillful side. Consistency was maintained until gaining silverware as champions in Albion's centenary year. 01/2 started in similar vein in lg1 (div2), initially launched by Adams before he left for kudos of the Premiership. Peter Taylor took over and the challenge continued somewhat seamlessly. It was business as usual as Taylor matched Adams stats in back-back fashion.

Y4 Martin Hinshelwood & Steve Coppell - Championship
With Taylor declining to attempt a shot at Championship level (div1), Hinshelwood gave it a try for year4. But attempting to establish a team at higher standard proved difficult in 02/3. There was a long losing run and Coppell stepped into the breach but was unable to save us from relegation, although he tried hard enough. The recognised 50 point survival target unfortunately was not reached. There was a feeling of hard luck that prevailed in denying consolidation afterall. Nevertheless a precedent had been set in doggedly competing at this level.

Y5-7 Mark McGhee - League One & Championship.
There was a positive beginning to year5 when Coppell bettered Adams respective stats at lower league in 03/4 before likewise leaving for superior status. Mark McGhee arrived, got through a tough mid season and kept us in the hunt for a play-off place. He almost matched Adams/Taylor's credentials as his luck held during the run-in and knockout phases. It was an unbelievable day of emotion at the Millennium Stadium. In 04/5 McGhee's year6 return to the Championship went much along lines of Adams inaugural year1 until tailing off, to assume a drop zone contest of Coppell's year4. Albion clung on to tier two this term, snatching survival at the death - thus claiming a second life. In 05/6 under pressure McGhee's year7 went from bad to worse - down, enough said.
For 06/7 there was a weekend lg1 visit to south London in Sept 2006, thankfully short in terms of nationwide away trips because appearing quite a bit on fixture lists was Millwall. We'd been there a lot during recent seasons, which also brought mixed memories flooding into our once-upon-a-time manager's aching head. South he came, in the year 2000 to Millwall and in that new beginning, created heaven and then it became hell. He took them up to division 1 and on to play-offs but crowd trouble meant imposed restrictions at the Den, when sky high gates fell to meagre on rocky earth. Mr McGhee was under enforced gas pressure, as imposed Premiership impossibilities simmered on a low rear burner. The following season, he moved down to Brighton in 2003 and took us back into the Championship alongside Millwall again. Both clubs dropped into familiar League1 surroundings by 2006 and Mr McGhee was once more feeling pressurised.
Dick Knight appointed Mark McGhee, hoping he could make new city boys Brighton a regular Championship side, like he had with our neighbours in the capital and one enduring life with the Lions. Our new manager responded with a defensive, 'there is no magic wand'. This no nonsense Glaswegian had a very broad playing and managing experience, also saying, 'I don't want to be known as a Second Division specialist'. McGhee arrived here after long deliberation and not as a knee jerk reaction to wanting a job. By own admission, he was prepared to give 100% but only signed for two years initially, as a sort of pre-nuptial honeymoon period. Those opening games at lesser standard for our gritty Scots Boss were, in footy speak a 'mare. He added to the squad immediately and held a doctrine of blooding young players considered of pro ability. His aim was to finish in the top two. It didn't happen quite that way but a prominent Youth Policy flourished during two subsequent years ('04-'06) in the Championship. However establishment there stalled, as things went badly wrong towards that disappointing end to our last Champ's season. Even a 1st of April win at lowly Millwall was merely celebrated as another bizarre event, although it could be seen just what youth, pace, enthusiasm and commitment might eventually achieve.
The '06/7 season started with a below average assessment and again Mr McGhee was feeling a squeeze. He asked for a degree of tolerance from Brighton fans, who gave him a tongue lashing on seeing the third consecutive defeat in six. 'We have a very young squad, who need time to develop and aren't suddenly going to turn up experienced and knowing the ropes'. So, based on form thus far, no inspiring talk of a 'top two finish' or presumably not League1 er, specialism either. 'The only players available to me beyond the 16 were two others, neither of whom featured before'. Well, BHA had become a selling club and by definition 'profits' by remaining small and turning over talent - including those not reaching McGhee's supposed quality test for attitude, seemingly in which he did specialise. So goal posts appeared to get moved since progressive days of three years before, when he stated, 'I've come here to be at the top end of the game again'. Brighton fans very much welcomed a return to such an ambitious program that desperately needed to boost this club and yes, it all kicked off on a Saturday in Docklands. However, McGhee was sacked on the Friday before, along with assistant Bob Booker.

Y8-9 Dean Wilkins - League One.
While taking over for 06/7, our 6th manager in 8 years faced a huge task ahead. He probably did ok to settle for a less than average end to that inconsistent season. In his second term of management, Dean Wilkins guided Brighton to just outside League1 play-offs for '07/8. He had taken over from Mark McGhee in September 2006, when unrest among fans and unease with the squad prompted the BHA board into action. Wilkins had beforehand been youth team manager and coached more than one very successful side of lads to prominence in their regional set-up and recognition when against Academy outfits in the Cup. Many of his various under 18s from several annual intakes became professionals at this club. These kids and a few home-bred youngsters from previous regular scholarships, were duly drafted in to attempt a difficult challenge - reaching p-os in a tough third tier. In a year of under achievement, everybody learnt a lot about basic grass-roots footy in that division. Expectation levels rose for 2007 but unfortunately, developing an integrated group became somewhat disjointed with a series of transfers at the January 2008 window. That Wilkins steered a revised and patched-up team to within touching distance of k-o stages is to his immense credit. You couldn't hold it against boyish blue & white that they fell short. There was some comment as to DW's square shape in a round hole and not merely on the pitch. A 10 man cull of Albion's squad at end of an encouraging season received much criticism from fans and fringe players alike. Supposedly Dean Wilkins was not the most adaptable in human resources and media involvement. His chairman and in many respects demanding boss, dealt with player negotiations and of course their associated agents. It all became a process two steps removed from face to face on green grass. Wilkins still had backers, while McGhee endured detractors after perceived failure to consolidate at higher level. Twenty months after starting out down the road, steering a football club to anticipated destinations, Wilkins found he too had run out of room to manoeuvre.

Y10-12 Micky Adams, Russell Slade & Gus Poyet - League One.
In an end of season blaze of publicity, Dick Knight installed Micky Adams as his 'new' manager for '08/9. Wilkins had got BHA to 7th place in '07/8, which some regarded as sufficient to expect a p-o challenge next term. You can imagine just how big the E-word was by pre-season, when Virgo and other ex-Champ's players arrived to boost Adams inherited squad. But following a reasonable start, form tailed off, especially at W'dean where it became a continual mare. Knight stood by his man when coming under criticism from fans as Albion slid downwards. DK did the biz again in Jan '09 transfer window to help try to solve injury and other squad problems. But before end of February, Adams left our club by mutual consent with B'ton in 21st place, still struggling at home and threatened by relegation. Did he jump or was he pushed?
Russell Slade came in and orchestrated the great escape, by taking things to the final fixture to avoid falling back into the drop zone. He became a legend in his own run-in. Dick Knight was a relieved man and all. He in turn became an old ledg when 'promoted' to President when Tony Bloom got to be chairman in May '09.
But it was same old in '9/10 and Slade's new squad were just as poor results-wise as 12 months ago. At the end of October '09 Slade, along with White & Booker were all sacked by Bloom. Big punter Tony thought he held a useful hand and the ace in this pack turned out to be Gus Poyet. He was a pukka coach but very new to management when taking over in Nov '09. Poyet set about changing Albion's style from long ball to footy on the floor but it took a while for the peseta to drop. Eventually a blend of Slade signings and new on-loan recruits got to do the biz. A mid table finish formed a foundation to push on for better things in '10/11. Gus revolutionised the way Albion played during our final term at Withdean. Most people thought it was the best performances since Goldstone glory years and took BHA to top of league1 from merely eight games played. It stayed like that through mid season and come the run-in, Brighton had run away with this division to achieve promotion as L1 title winners.
* * * * *

Withdean Coaches

WITHDEAN ERA from 1999.
Y2k -'08 Dean Wilkins & Dean White -'09 Leagues Two & One, Championship.
More speculation and serial September sensation in the denes of Sussex during 2006 - Dean & Dean were still awaiting their first home win! We supposed this small blip in an otherwise winning sequence would soon be rectified, to register complete satisfaction on any given Saturday. Their new partnership bridged a six year gap stretching back to the end of September 2000. On that proverbial 'well I never did' football merry-go-round, Withdean was 'sold out' for a first time. Micky Adams was shortly to appoint Bob Booker as his new assistant and also Dean White as boss of reserves. But in Sept '06 B'fans said, 'thank you Bob' for guiding, advising and generally looking after so many BHA managers and players in the interim. Our new caretaker Dean Wilkins, had previously been kicking a ball about at Worthing, Crawley and Bognor before returning to Brighton as Youth Team Coach in pre-season of 1998. As a 21yo Dean left QPR, joined BHA and went out on loan to er, LO. He then ended up in the Netherlands for three years, finally signing again for Brighton in 1987. It was a kind of arse about face and definitely a little bit double Dutch to boot. Adams brought Dean White to the club to tap into his non-league knowledge and experience, thus trying to exploit any local talent to be found in and around the county. On May Bank Holiday 2000, BHA reserves had played Hastings Town, managed by White and won the Sussex Senior Cup via a penalty shoot-out. Fiesty Adams gave away lucky winners champagne to his future 2nds coach and Chief Scout - keeping Dean in mind for a professional post at Brighton and subsequently much more bubbly. Dean White became Wilkins assistant when the former Youth coach took over from Mark McGhee in September 2006. White was also asst in Micky Adams second spell from May 2008 and took over briefly as caretaker mngr in Feb '09. He said, 'I've enough knowledge to know what's needed. I feel as though I've done a good job here. I live in Hastings, this is my local team and will give it absolutely everything. We've worked to keep this club going forward.' Dean White was sacked by Tony Bloom in October 2009.

Bob Booker Y2k - '06 & '08 - '09 Leagues Two & One, Championship.
Returning to the club in July 2008 but as Reserve Team Coach, Booker said, 'this feels like I'm coming home. We all muck in together.' When Micky Adams first brought Bob on-board as Assistant in October 2000, Dean White had also just arrived to do the 2nd eleven job. Previously Alan Cork had been asst mgnr and ex-Albion player Ian Culverhouse was in charge of the stiffs. Cork joined Cardiff shortly after a visit to the Welsh outfit, where his old Wimbledon Crazy Gang pals Bobby Gould and Sam Hammam were in residence. It was probably an offer he couldn't refuse. Alan said, 'it was like leaving my brother to go back to my father'. Booker returned to the fold with Adams second revolution after Dean Wilkins declined demotion to become 1st eleven coach and another ex-Albion man, Ian Chapman resigned from that post in sympathy of management 'restructuring'. Bob held the gofar job under Taylor, Hinshelwood, Coppell and McGhee and had spells as caretaker mngr. He saw the back-back title years, Millennium Stadium triumph and also Championship struggles in 2004-2006. Perhaps it was a surprise when shown the door with Mark McGhee. For a while Booker scouted for Sheff U, his old club where he'd been a legend but stayed close to and in Sussex life and football. He said, 'I will get in there and play my part as I did before'. But things went from bad to worse during Adams second coming and Bob was again in a caretaker role when Adams went in Feb '09. Booker for his pains was sacked a second time, in Oct '09 when Russ Slade also departed BHA, as part of Tony Blooms big club mission. Bob was expected to join Micky Adams and original BHA Withdean era assistant Alan Cork, at Sheff Utd from beginning of 2011.

'09 - '11 Revolution2 & 3 continued - League One.
Tony Godden was confirmed as g-k coach, after replacing Paul Crichton during '08/9 season. He was a WBA and Chelsea custodian who as a reaction, took the dive to save his career. Crichton had previously replaced John Keeley, who went to Portsmouth as Academy gk coach in 2007. Keeley made first team gk coach when Pompey had financial troubles and dropped out of the Prem.
Mal Stuart retired from his very long-served post as physio, to be replaced by Jim Joyce. He'd been around at Yeovil, So'ton and Aldershot. He was also joined by ex-Albion full back Paul Watson as assistant. Matt Miller became fitness coach specifically. Then Mauricio Taricco arrived as squad coach for '9/10, when White & Booker got P45's from Bloom. Charlie Oatway got their coaching role as boss of reserves, while Steve Brown took charge of competitive kids soccer. Taricco sorted 1st 11 defensive woes and advised GP on rearguard duties. Oatway steered his young charges to yet another BHA seconds Sussex Senior Cup victory. Meanwhile, scouting networks got a makeover and Spaniard Zigor Aranalde became chief scout. U18-to-pro progression was also revised. We all knew the Combination league was a joke and not good for proper progression of a first team squad. A reliance on kids to make up reserve numbers was seen as a black hole in the scheme of things. So Gus decided to sort it. He brought in Luke Williams as coach for a revised development group in '10/11. At New Year 2011, Jim Joyce left and Nathan Ring became physio. He had been at Shrewsbury previously. Gus and his asistant come playing-sub, Mauricio Taricco (Tanno) worked wonders on the training ground and also benefitted from Matt Miller (Stretch) keeping the squad relatively injury-free off-field. Aranalde left the club in summer of 2011 to become a coach in Spain.
* * * * *

Gus Poyet

WITHDEAN ERA 2009 - 2011 League One.
South American carnival came to city by the sea.
Tony Bloom selected a top flite coach for the BHA hot seat in the autumn of '09, although Gus Poyet hadn't exactly got a track record as a gaffer. But whether it was at Withdean or Falmer, potential was definitely there to really go places. The 41yo Uruguayan ex-midfielder, with credentials at Chelsea and Spurs, stepped into an open-air environment hoping the roof wouldn't cave in before our new stad was erected. He immediately brought in Mauricio Taricco as no.2, to make it a Latin inspired foreign double with plenty of English experience. His Argy side-kick ex-defender had previously played for Ipswich & Spurs. Both men had a philosophy to win but also perform with entertaining footy to keep those crazy Brits happy. God only knows, Brighton fans had been starved of success during second half of this decade, while endlessly waiting for positives both on and off the field.
Poyet started with a big bang along the coast at Southampton but after that it kind of went tits up, like with Adams and Slade. However, genial Gus remained upbeat and musta had plenty of self belief. Slowly but surely, driven by passion and desire, GP stopped the rot, with BHA teetering on edges of the drop zone. Home form was dire but away, we were a different outfit - top-six figures for sure. Using Gussies knowledge and game plan, Brighton moved into mid table for '10, playing half decent football and finally giving their long suffering fans something to be happy about. Poyet introduced several successful on-loan signings and sent out a significant number of existing squad to other teams for games. He went for a 451 shape and tried to field a settled side. Passing footy was required and by and large, Albion scored more and conceded less than previously with orthodox 442.
Prior to start of '10/11, Gus took his newly assembled international squad to Portugal for er, multi-lingual bonding. He next signed an extended contract as manager until 2014. Pass, pass, pass was his mantra, although this now applied to third tier English basics. After an indifferent start to the final term at Withdean, BHA could concentrate on league1 - as we went out of LC and JPT comps in round1. By late September, Albion hit top of the table and stayed there for over seven months. A gap opened up above runners-up spot that chasing sides tried to close. An average spell of form during November and December coincided with an FA Cup run and bad weather. Once back on the promotion trail, Seagulls soared and during March won eight fixtures in series, to win GP Manager of the Month. Once again we were well clear of opposition and heading for the title. Promotion was achieved with five fixtures left and BHA became champions following the next match. What Gus had done for this club, backed by Tony Bloom's financial clout and Chairmanship, was truly remarkable and set us up for playing in the Championship at Falmer.
* * * * *

Russell Slade

WITHDEAN ERA 2009 League One.
Hero to er, well a nice zero
During February 2009 Micky Adams left BHA suddenly and ended his brief second spell at this club. Mr Knight actually wanted Jim Gannon from Stockport as new boss but he turned us down. Paul Ince declined an interview and supposedly there were others on Knight's knee-jerk hit-list. Anyway, Russell Slade need a job coz he'd departed from Yeovil a few weeks beforehand. He signed a short-term deal in March to try and keep Albion in League1. His background was with Scarborough and Grimsby, where he got 'em to a p-o final in '05/6. He also did the same for Glovers small outfit in '06/7. The 48yo was obviously ambitious and noticed the great big hole being dug at Falmer straight away. Mr K said they would fill it with 22k punters in 2011 and Slade said, 'ok'. He set about keeping Albion in League1 and it went to the very last day to get sufficient points for survival.
For '09/10, Tony Bloom was now chairman and funded BHA for 100mill. Slade accumulated a new squad but it backfired as Seagulls slumped to d-z landings. By October '09, Bloom had taken enough punishment and Slade, White & Booker were given gardening leave and told to clear desks. Everybody said big Russ was a nice guy but you know what they mean about nice guys don't you? Falmer was being built and steelwork towered above the A27. Bloom had ambitions to be big in tier two and didn't want to waste another L1 season poncing about there, with threats of div4 come the next August becoming a reality. Look, life isn't a beach! Slade got a late job in '9/10 to rescue Orient from relegation - he did that too. So he got taken on there for '10/11. Russ did well at Brisbane Road and O's weren't so far off a play-off place in seventh.
* * * * *

Dean Wilkins

WITHDEAN ERA 2006 - 2008 League One.
Where did the buck eventually stop?
Brighton may have failed miserably to make play-offs but there was plenty of knock-about action just below sixth place since dust settled on League1's table of '07/8 term. No sooner had Swansea exposed a glaring gap between champions and best of the mediocre rest, than it all kicked-off again at Albion in an immediate post-season week of shocks. Defender Joel Lynch said, 'a few more wins in games we know we should have won could have put us up there.' Finishing seventh also took its toll on out of contract fringe players, where several were involved on Mayday Bank Holiday in the 2008 Sussex Senior Cup final - see my considered match report. A once appreciable void then closed between non-league and league standards as witnessed at sunny Eastbourne. Goal-scorer Scott Chamberlain said, 'it can't have done my chances any harm that the gaffer was there to see it.' Captain Wes Fogden said, 'not everyone is going to be here next year so we played for each other and got the right result.' By midweek, manager Dean Wilkins announced Brighton's revised squad lists and Chamberlain, Fogden, striker Sam Gargan and keeper John Sullivan from a victorious reserves side were retained. That meant midfielder Paul Reid, Sam Rents, David Martot, Shane McFaul, Sonny Cobbs, Lloyd Skinner and sub-goalie Chris Winterton from those county cup winners were released. Some certainly felt hard done-by. Wilkins said, 'it is the nature of the game that to be competitive we have to make tough decisions.' Reid said, 'I thought being versatile and filling different positions has benefited the club and the team.' Reid also elucidated Wilkins didn't communicate enough with players, lacked man management skills and showed disrespect toward older pros. He furthermore suggested, 'you know deep down when your face doesn't fit you have got no chance.'
Apart from controversy among Brighton's seconds, long-serving first team regulars Guy Butters, Kerry Mayo and Gary Hart were similarly shown the door in a ten man clear-out. Injury prone Adam Hinshelwood and rookie Doug Loft were two kept on BHA books for 2008 as Albion revealed a 2.8 million pound loss to June 2007. Chairman Dick Knight said, 'the results spell out the urgent need for the new stadium with all the economic benefits it will bring.' Knight appeared to throw money at Wilkins playing budget in mid season when things were in a state of upheaval. At the time, original contract issues were apparently not up for extensive discussions, resulting in some comprehensive transfer activity. This set a trend for shuffling the deck to find a winning combination. Undoubtedly progress was made during a formative season with latterly a marque-two team-sheet that more than doubled first half points tally. Mr Knight got his anticipated top-ten position but must have been disappointed not to reach k-o phases - when converting a perceived selling club into an outright buying one. A few loan signings measured against lack of strength in depth had taken Brighton to brink of qualifying, without representing the real deal in terms of Championship potential. In truth we couldn't beat likes of Swansea, Carlisle, Forest and Leeds, while versus Southend and Doncaster only obtained points in very tight contests. Meanwhile Deadly Dick had his eye on the end game and in knowing what's needed for elevation, wasn't prepared to tolerate mere mid table anonymity. He could recognise a supposed threat to our club's present fan-base from continuous rise of Sussex teams chasing future League2 football. Nine thousand gates isn't enough turnover until 2010 and BHA thereafter require at least fourteen kay at accessible and sustainable Falmer. This league ain't big enough for two of us.
Anyway all of the aforementioned happenings took us rapidly to end of the first full week of May and incidentally, up in Essex, Southend hosted Doncaster for their p-o home leg that evening. Mr Knight had held a post mortem meeting and said, 'the board felt we needed a manager with more experience to help the club make the great leap back into the Championship.' Brighton fans found out via various grape-vines that legend Micky Adams had agreed a three year deal to return pronto to southern shores and create a beach-head for yet another Sussex promotion push. Simultaneously Eastbourne Borough joined Lewes and Crawley in Blue Square Premier division for 2008-9. Adams said, 'the challenge is to get the club into the Championship in the next two years leading up to Falmer.'
So rebounding irony of an up and down week was that if Wilkins actually had got Brighton into p-o contention, in spite of midterm gliches, he might not have experienced the proverbial rug pulled from under feet like some of his squad. It would seem a near miss is as good as a mile on the road to Falmer, when seen in those particular circumstances of applying relative success to this season. However, specialised knowledge necessary for a bosses CV on and off the field, could only be gained through traumatic involvement. Knight was happy to conduct contract negotiations because he's had well over ten years to reflect on peoples ulterior motives in and around professional football. Qualifications in business management and PR activities may have been foreign to Wilkins but hey, did he allow guidance from the club's senior mentor to become the thin end of a powerful wedge to side-track his other skills? Perhaps DW had visions of his own that did not dovetail with DK's three-year Falmer dream machine. Development of a home-bred eleven was a route instigated in residual days of McGhee's abortive reign, when Brighton was skint in more ways than one. So it should hold up to inspection that Deano would want to take his youth products as far as they could go, possibly at expense of other signings. Despite BHA's restrictive finances since 1999 and economic climates recently, there is now investment available riding on the back of late pro-Falmer political decision. This may not have sufficiently swayed our rookie ex-manager from a chosen path of completing his favoured pet coaching project. Those with ultimate power to hire and fire obviously thought differently and exercised their options to devastating effect. Older ex-manager Adams, was repetitively willing and able and it all fell into place, even if timing was bizarrely out of phase with Withdean's boss no.6, boys to men achievements. But Knight had waited too long to ponder on what-ifs and after all he is again, like our home-coming initial no1 leader, a man on a veritable mission. By appointing Adams and replicating moves devised before dawn of the twenty-first century, he aimed to repeat success at second time of asking. It surely proved a harder task and in a sense there was much more to lose, apart from missing that cherished top10 target, when facing another relegation occasion. Micky was of course a philosophical icon among his many talents and one quote that springs to mind is, 'failing to prepare is preparing to fail.' You know it all makes perfect sense in hindsight really.
For 2009-10 Dean was appointed assistant to Alan Pardew at League1 Southampton. Dick Knight had gone upstairs to run hospitality and oversee community affairs but we're sure he had a kind word with his old Albion hero - no hard feelings. We just love a happy BHA ending too. DW again found he had yet another new boss before too long but hey, that's ya footy merry-go-round for yer!
* * * * *

Mark McGhee

WITHDEAN ERA 2003 - 2006 League One & Championship.
What did he get into?
Going back in time to mid November 2003, BHA were full of anticipation for a successful launch to return to a division 1 orbit. Mark McGhee had stepped forward to replace Steve Coppell and next up was Bristol City at Withdean. Albion were in 4th place in div2, four points ahead of City and within reach of leaders Plymouth and QPR. McGhee said, 'I don't think anyone at the club believes we have a squad that can guarantee us a top two finish. Therefore I am determined to put together a squad that will give us a chance of finishing in the top two.' After the match which Bristol won 4-1, McGhee then said, 'I think between the time of Steve going and me arriving at the club, the players had lost a little bit of confidence and a bit of fitness and they are starting to get that back. This should bode well for the very hard programme coming up... However there's a lot of work to be done in order to get us back to the top of this division and we just can't afford to have days off at the moment.' Brighton fans had got a shock during that Bristol fixture but home form picked up again and the next 90 minute Withdean 'loss' of sorts, was to Swindon in '03/4 play-off semi-finals. Meanwhile McGhee struggled to prevent a string of defeats on the road until entering the run-in proper. His words were seemingly as thin as Albion's away form as we went for at least 6th qualifying spot. A play-off place was secured, five points behind third placed Bristol City and six adrift of automatically promoted QPR.
Three seasons later on our last visit to Ashton Gate for a JPT tie the manager had changed, although Albion's '06/7 squad had not radically altered. During a summer day of 1 September '06, in an early season League 1 sparring contest at City, McGhee fell foul of fans and ultimately his Chairman. In a slightly different ball game, Wilkins was also building for a future and still generally has backing while inheriting, understanding and tackling latent problems. McGhee's then fielded team could be called experimental, having shown the door to numerous established pro's before pre-season. By default, Wilkins had adapted those remaining personnel to needs as he saw fit for purpose to progress. If ongoing League results were expressed in form of a graph, an undulating upward curve reached a plateau, possibly peaked and had to be watched closely, if not monitored ultra carefully for signs of downward motion. But that midweek contest was a second consecutive cup-tie and one perhaps with more significance than being pushed over the edge by a flashy Prem outfit. There were post match measures pinpointing how far Brighton had fallen in relation to a typical top ten League 1 club, who we crucially defeated in regaining Championship status - getting on for three years before. Essentially Albion had to view it like past play-off or Millennium Stadium style events charged with positive energy. However times had changed and this was kicked off by McGhee but eventually to be finished by Wilkins.
MMcG went to Motherwell and did ok. So he took off for Aberdeen. It was as far north as he wanted to go. Mark came back in pre-season 2010 with Aberdeen for a friendly at W'dean. He said he had to sell players at Albion coz the club was so skint with Falmer sucking up any extra dosh. Ok, let by gones etc, it's all in the past anyway. BTW, somehow McGhee held onto an SPL job when his outfit got claymored 9-0 later that season. Not too much later he was unemployed again. Ock aye the noo Jock!!
* * * * *

Steve Coppell

WITHDEAN ERA 2002 - 2003 Championship (div1).
Told as a tale of double standards.
By summer's end of 2002, Martin Hinshelwood had his very short career as Albion manager, washed away in autumn rains. It also poured cold water on hopes of green-as-grass BHA, establishing in div1 after a meteoric rise from lowest launch sites of div3 mud-baths. Steve Coppell was drafted in to try and stabilise the '02/3 situation and keep us up if at all possible. He nearly succeeded in a dramatic turn around of events. A year later, Coppell baled out for higher levels and Mark McGhee came in as leader for '03/4. In '04/5 McGhee was faced with a slightly different scenario to Coppell when managing Brighton in the Championship. He had the luxury of pre-season to prepare, plus div1 experience elsewhere - unlike Hinshelwood and knew the squad, unlike Coppell.
Each manager had brought their own players in to bolster the team but were very restricted by budgets and running costs. Although the side as such had changed over two years, the backbone of a competent keeper, tough tackling centre half and proven goal scorer was in situ for both campaigns. In fairness to Hinsh, he was deprived of these three key elements continuously through injuries and players poor form. The learning curve also rose steeply for old pro's and kids alike, who altogether were first time in at the deep end.

If we consider each season as a battle for survival, the critical phase was that following the start period when damage had already occured. Coppell had the disadvantage of reversing a long losing run, which saw Brighton bottom of the div1 table and adrift of fellow strugglers. McGhee in contrast almost languished in mid table and only had to repeat this performance for a mediocre but highly applauded finish.
start
02/3 P12 W1 D1 L10 Pt4 Po24 Hinshelwood
04/5 P12 W4 D3 L5 Pt15 Po15 McGhee

After the start was recorded, it left a target to be achieved over remaining 34 games up to a total of 46. The bottom line in each case was to survive.
targets
02/3 +34 11 13 10 Pt 46 Po21 Coppell
02/3 P46 12 14 20 Pt 50
04/5 +34 08 11 15 Pt 35 Po21 McGhee
04/5 P46 12 14 20 Pt 50

At halfway stage through these terms, when we had met each opponent once, effects of the calibre of individual leadership could be measured. Coppell tightened defence that subsequently kept scores down. He made us harder to beat and competitive on a level playing field at some big name stadia. McGhee was finding defeats at our Withdean nature reserve a thorn in his side, compounded by some stinging shocks away that had him reaching for an antidote.
halfway
02/3 P23 W3 D5 L15 Pt14 Po24 Coppell
04/5 P23 W7 D4 L12 Pt25 Po20 McGhee

In both cases it was far from a winter of discontent as results reflected a healthy return of points taken at the three quarters snapshot. In 2003 Coppell had to attempt finding a winning formula to nullify inertia of a legacy of very bad opening stats. McGhee needed to ensure defeats were kept to a minimum in order to stay on schedule, having got half of his points in the bag by beginning of 2005.
three quarters
02/3 P35 W7 D8 L20 Pt29 Po22 Coppell
04/5 P35 W12 D8 L15 Pt44 Po15 McGhee

A realistic rescue act was not thought possible, given conditions for Coppell to operate. It went to the last day but Albion were at least 5 points shy of the cut-off line. The Brighton team of two season's later also needed a result in the final fixture to make sure of staying up. McGhee ended six points better with his second year triers.
full season
02/3 P46 W11 D12 L23 Pt45 Po23 Coppell - relegated
04/5 P46 W13 D12 L21 Pt51 Po20 McGhee - survived

Coppell was undertaking major surgery in his 34 match exploration. He scored highly in mid season, run-in and second half periods. He missed a tough target but got 89pc of the way there. Coppell roused Seagulls to obtain 16 of final points tally during the run-in. Projected over a full term this strike rate would have ensured a position above the drop zone. McGhee unfortunately found himself attempting to re-motivate a side that peaked before well before run-in. His latter figs were relegation type form and a gaffers nightmare. He regained equalibrium with late salvage work to actually hit his er, mark.
mid season
02/3 P23 W6 D7 L10 Pt25
04/5 P23 W8 D5 L10 Pt29
second half
02/3 P23 W8 D7 L8 Pt31
04/5 P23 W6 D8 L9 Pt26
run-in
02/3 P11 W4 D4 L3 Pt16 Coppell - unlucky
04/5 P11 W1 D4 L6 Pt 7 McGhee - just made the grade.
* * * * *

Martin Hinshelwood

WITHDEAN ERA 2002 Championship (div1).
Summer, first, second then third times.
There were of course ups and downs in the Withdean era. By start of '02/3 campaign, Brighton were new boys in div1 and with a new manager as well. Peter Taylor had departed soon after receiving the div2 title silverware and Martin Hinshelwood was shifted into your proverbial managers office, from his position of responsibility with development of the youth squad. Dick Knight left things late to reorganise and pre-season for 2002 was about to get underway. Hinshelwood had originally been appointed Barry Lloyd's assistant way back in 1987. He then came back to the club prior to our Withdean era, under their new regime to build sides of successful Sussex youngsters. His brief was to fast-track kids to do a job as pros - initially reaching BHA first team squad.
Also going back - to those gory years of a decrepit Goldstone, followed by exile at Gillingham, a few die-hards could remember poor starts to several seasons. However no Albion fan would want to repeat that 12 match opening sequence to '02/3, that did for us long before a panic-stricken run-in. Mid table mediocrity, smug safety scenario, a comfortable cushion and perusing play-off pursuits would have done nicely instead. To log those first dozen games, reflect upon initial points and performances and dwell on the start generally, set a far from usual trend. We took 4pts from 2 opening fixtures but none thereafter until well into autumn. As a row of LLLL... increased, Dick Knight said words to the effect of, '10 and out.' He was as good as his word and Hinshelwood got promoted upstairs to Director of Football.
As a comparison, a second stab at tier two level starts in '04/5 and third in '05/6 is worth a look for stats purposes. Brighton had grown accustomed to being in a drop zone dog-fight by then. Working to tight budgets was mandatory and totally necessary as the fight for Falmer swallowed huge amounts of dosh. Injuries, fitness and loss of an edge became prime factors in make up of the selected sixteen. Out of form but quality strikers are hard to substitute, when realised from those zany Zamora halcyon days. Championship type players didn't want to come here and so Hinshelwood's revised role was even more important than ever before. Home bred youngsters began to slot into his first eleven in desperate times and to some extent, this policy resumed at a later date. Several kids made the grade and helped pursue an Albion dream. If you're good enough, you're old enough. Hinsh as Director of Football, went on to bring many more Sussex kids into pro football in the Withdean era.

02/3 P12 W1 D1 L10 Pt4 Po24 Hinshelwood
04/5 P12 W4 D3 L5 Pt15 Po15 McGhee
05/6 P12 W1 D7 L4 Pt10 Po21 McGhee
* * * * *

Peter Taylor

WITHDEAN ERA 2001 - 2002 League One (div2).
Different boss, similar bottom line.
With more managers than you can shake a fixture list at in an extraordinary decade, the Withdean era kicked-off with Micky Adams in 1999. He had the nucleus of a side to be play-off contenders after his first twelve months proper. In '00/01 Adams revolution rolled on and there was a sustained promotion push. Consistency of a fantastic 2pt/gm average culminated in some div3 silverware in Albion's centenary year. The following term '01/2 started in similar vein, initially launching a winning campaign for div2 heights. Adams appeared to be repeating history, however he left for kudos of the Premiership. The popular Yorkshireman went to Leicester as assistant. Their ex-manager Peter Taylor took over here and the challenge continued somewhat seamlessly. It was business as usual until the trophy was won, again with a superb 1.95 index at this successive title race's climax.

One way to interpret these two back-to-back champions seasons is to measure both for their repective target period. After each start of 12 games, a forecast for remaining 34 fixtures is then set. This in turn computes a total, which as these seasons progress, result in an actual bottom line. As detailed below, Adams and Taylors records are on the left while their ultimate projections are to right of the table.
Withdean era season2, Div3 '00/1 - Micky Adams:
P12 W07 D02 L03 Pt23 - start for Adams
P34 W21 D06 L07 Pt69 - W17 D10 L07 Pt61 target
P46 W28 D08 L10 Pt92 - W24 D12 L10 Pt84 total
Withdean era season3, Div2 '01/2 - Peter Taylor:
P12 W06 D04 L02 Pt22 - start by Adams for Taylor
P34 W19 D11 L04 Pt68 - W17 D10 L07 Pt61 target
P46 W25 D15 L06 Pt90 - W23 D14 L09 Pt83 total

Taylor progressed a settled side on through the autumn/winter period of '01/2 to mostly be in the top two and set-fair for p-o stages at least. In fact Albion stormed through the higher division just like a year previously. They eventually went on to win the title and collected consecutive championships - no mean feat. The 2002 run-in began with their last defeat as Brighton took 24pts from 30 possible in an amazing unbeaten climax. For his own reasons Taylor didn't want to be gaffer for an attempt to stake a claim in div1.
run-in sequences;
'00/1 DWDWW WDWWDL = 22pts Adams
'01/2 LWDWW DWWWDW = 24pts Taylor
* * * * *

Micky Adams

WITHDEAN ERA 1999 - 2001 Leagues Two & One (divs3 & 2), 2008 - 2009 League One.
Revolution Part 1 - League Two.
In May 2008 Micky Adams said, 'I thought it was a great honour when I got the job the first time but to be offered the chance to comeback for a second time is fantastic.' He'd left Brighton in October 2001 to become assistant at Leicester, then manage to guide that club back into the Premiership. Adams subsequently had two years at Coventry from 2005, including a move to their new stadium in the Championship. But it was at Brighton in 1999 that our gritty Yorkshireman showed skills as a motivator and winner. As the youngest player-manager in the league at Fulham in 1996, he led them to promotion from div3 straight away. Adams then had a spell at Brentford and very briefly Swansea, before mailing his CV to Dick Knight. Those following two and a half years became known as Adams revolution, as he transformed a down-and-out fourth tier side into champions. Micky and the Albion were seemingly a match made in heaven but an ambitious young man wanted to test himself in the elite. Somehow on returning to our fold, where stakes were upped with all-round approval of Falmer, Adams still appeared to be the right man at slightly less than the right moment. 'Brighton managed to reach the Championship not so long ago and I laid the foundations for that,' he said. But with passing through of those of his players who once held their own at tier two, Adams had a partial rebuilding job in League1 to complete. However with the second coming, a lot of club infrastructure and experience was in place to assist with team reconstruction and creation of expected p-o candidates, or better, table toppers mark two.

Revolution Part 2 - League One.
Back to the club where he appeared fatefully drawn in 1999, Micky Adams was responsible for Albion's Withdean year2 elevation to Lg1 (div2). Since then in nine years of struggle, BHA obtained two further promotions (yr3 & yr5) and look how far the club has come from 20th century dark days. It could be argued that there were two distinct types of period for furthering Brighton's ambitions - progressive (yr1-6) and static (yr7-10). In a sense both categories produced the goods, albeit hardly by linear or 'normal' progression with time. It was usually more of two steps forward and one back. Those early attempts to establish in the Championship (yr4, yr6-7) should not be seen in isolation - but as an accumulative product of what went before. Each previous hop was precluded by regular stepping stones, with pause to regroup and eventually try to move forward (yr1-3, yr5 and yr8-10). Life in lower league was again part of an anticipated if somewhat enigmatic rise to tier two, where Albion expect to play football and as Adams originally recognised - rightfully belong. In a decade of striving, BHA, the club and managers and fans are still ambitious for the consolidated Championship future. A top ten team consistently performing at a modern stadium could be considered a minimum aspiration for representing a significant football city by the sea.

Once again Micky Adams was in charge and we suspected he wasn't just there for old times sake. Having said that, if Brighton were serious about mounting a promotion challenge, it might be pertinent to compare those seasonal starts from Withdean era years when we done good. BHA achieved promotion from lg2 (div3) in 2001 and again from lg1 (div2) in 2002. We were back in the equivalent to League1 for 2003 but managed to gain a place in div2 play-offs. In 2008 these k-o stages were just out of reach, although early stats did give an indication of what was needed to progress. As a rule of thumb, 20+ points is a useful tally after twelve fixtures and even a couple pts less could set a path for 6th position. To make an assault on automatic promotion places, you gotta get points in the bag from day one....

Overview - Withdean Stats.
Yr Sesn L Pl W D L . Pt Po
01 99/00 2 . 12 5 3 4 . 18 11 - Adams
02 00/01 2 . 12 7 2 3 . 23 3 - - Adams
03 01/02 1 . 12 6 4 2 . 22 3 - - Adams
05 03/04 1 . 12 7 3 2 . 24 1 - - Coppell
08 06/07 1 . 12 4 2 6 . 14 14 - McGhee
09 07/08 1 . 12 5 2 5 . 17 10 - Wilkins
10 08/09 1 . 12 2 7 3 . 13 17 - Adams
11 09/10 1 . 12 3 4 5 . 13 17 - Slade
12 10/11 1 . 12 7 4 1 . 25 1 - - Poyet

Withdean Managers comparisons for points per game.
Adams kicked-off the start to '99 in an initial Withdean era campaign (year1), with a vast improvement on anything since relegation to div3 in '95. Occupying a position in mid table was almost acceptable - with an average of 1.5 points per game. He eclipsed that the very next term '00 by overturning three losses out of four opening fixtures, to record a promotion type index value of 1.9pt/gm - or rounded-up nearly two per match. His third blast from the blocks in '01 saw similar figures clocked, before Adams jumped ship - 1.83pt/gm.
Steve Coppell gave evidence to claim to be a winning manager when equalling automatic promotion figures in his start to '03 - 2.0pt/gm. Unfortunately he was also sought after, as success implied greater ability rather than mere capability.
Mark McGhee came in later to stay on course for play-offs. He was in final days at the helm for '06 when Albion returned to third tier football. His starting stats were not much above survival level - 1.17pt/gm.
Wilkins quickly replaced McGhee and a year on had the task of aiming for play-offs from the word go in '07. His numbers were 1.42pt/gm which was a tad shy of the real deal required for a top-six spot.
Mr Knight did a Sir Alan and Adams came home for a second revolution in '08. MA got 1.08pt/gm - oh no! That was relegation form.
So there you are, points win prizes and writing was on the proverbial wall from high summer until 'see you in September'. Drop too many points early in the season and you are up against it. Get a head start on rivals and suddenly, it's a quarter of the way toward a possible fourth promotion in a decade of on the up - dream on.

Second going...
Brighton's start to '08/9 wasn't the best preparation for bettering '07/8 sequences but even with these mundane stats in the bag, expectation remained high for progress toward top-six. However things went from bad to worse. Apart from loss of form, a series of injuries meant MA couldn't field a settled side and loan players came and went up to New Year '09. Poor results at W'dean throughout mid-season put Albion into the drop-zone and Adams under pressure to find a fix. We thought him bullet proof with Mr Knight's backing but before end of Feb '09, Micky Adams had left Brighton again. It appeared he couldn't find an elusive magic formula for second time of asking and turn basic pro's into a team going places at third tier level. Moreover it seemed as if he was fighting a losing battle with scouting and director factions at the club. He recognised the level of players was under par but couldn't change the course of this round of results. Once on the rocky road, Adams saw the warning signs and where it was leading. Others wouldn't accept his brand of realism and asked a lot of someone true to individual beliefs. Micky had never towed the line to keep himself in a job. Adams became boss at Port Vale and hoped to do another rebuilding job - professionally and personally. At start of 2011, Micky applied for and got, the vacant mngrs job at Sheff Utd. He almost felt he deserved it. Trouble was, they were soon relegated to league1 and Adams and side-kick Alan Cork got the old tintack. So he went back to Vale and carried on.
* * * * *

W'dean Ins & Outs

WITHDEAN ERA... League One, Championship & League Two.
in 2009-2011 out - Elliott Bennett (League One)
Winger and more; 20yo from Wolves for £250k+ for '9/10 and Russ Slade chased him to say the least. Did wing walking at speed. Looked like a confidence player and Gus Poyet needed to get his arms spread in a man to boy hug. Super-kid obviously had raw ability but needed coaching bad. Reasonable first apps and sensational in one game with wonder goal too. Perhaps played a tad too deep at home. Generally did good stuff while open to improvement. Not used to full effect either but did defend. Made an effort to get on score sheet with regular strikers so in-and-out. Hid a tad on flank and often spasmodic involvement when kicked off the park at L1 level. Then followed super displays away, plus great goals. PoY runner up.
'10/11; Bit of fetch and carry duties and had a special delivery. FAC equaliser but could score more overall. Busy as supplier to strikers in 4312 free role. Increasingly influencial from midfield or off either flank. Part of the core of a title winning side. Got his own chant and went down the wing for it. PoY candidate.
Transfer Window - Tony Bloom said no to offer. End of season - received L1 442 mag PoY award. Went to Norwich for 1.5mill in close season. Deserved a shot against elite.

in 2008-2011 out - Glenn Murray (League One)
300k signing from Rochdale in '08 as lg2 hitman who got goals. Tall and fairly good in the air, ok too on the floor. Had a footy brain but needed service to exploit talent. Scored no probs and obviously had an eye for chances. Hold-up okish but no real pace. Got stuck between a rock and a hard place. Injuries included needing groin surgery. Also stomach problem and other stuff.
'9/10 season; dug in and needed to and all. Took pens but sent off as well. Better stance with new coaches when Poyet arrived. 4goal hero and bit of an enigma - a poacher in the box. League1 striker at his level. Eventually broke home goal duck but ban for loadsa yellows. His own worst enemy with Refs and temperment had to be coached if to be a tier-two pro of note. Came back from injury and had a mare as solo striker. Sent off and ban - was a very bad boy for sure. Talk of poss transfer back up north. Woulda saved on shrinks fee too.
'10/11 season; off the mark early doors and looked sharp in make or break year. Subbed but was first on selection list. Missed basic chances but bagged difficult ones. Had an edge in more ways than one, languid with a winning streak you might say. Picked up too many yellows, although MoM performances - when he wanted to! Hat-trick hero to boot!! 20+ goal striker and leading scorer. PoY candidate in title winning year. Very good strike rate over three seasons. Came good in the end, then gone but not to Falmer yet.

in 2006-2011 out - Andrew Whing (League One)
Dean Wilkins first took the tenacious right back on loan from Coventry, for Brighton's return to league1, in October of '06/7. In the summer of '07/8 he signed permanently and became no.2 outright. During '08/9, Albion were heading straight for league2 and the red-haired Brummie played a significant part in Russ Slade securing BHA survival. When Gus Poyet arrived in '9/10, Seagulls were again struggling and after heavy loss against top notch Norwich, Whingy was not involved in squad participation on match days. The self confessed Aston Villa fan made 115 apps and got voted PoY for that '08/9 great escape. Russ Slade rescued his career when taking the tough tackling defender to Orient on loan in '10/11, then signed permanently. Albion paid up the contract and Andy became a free agent, so went to Brisbane Road. He said, 'I would like to thank fans for being so supportive during my time at the club.' While Albion often made hard work of life in league1, Whing could sometimes be part of travelling support when not selected and was seen on terraces rooting for team mates like a true fan.

in 2008-2010 out - Adam Virgo (League One, Championship)
Micky Adams returned to Brighton in May 2008 and so did Adam Virgo, when signed in July on a free transfer from Celtic. He was transferred there by Mark McGhee in close season of 2005 for 1.5 million quid, following a season conveted from defender to striker. Virgo did ok as a front-man in the Championship of '04/5, scoring 9 goals from 36 apps. His last net buster was on the final day at home to Ipswich. That strike and subsequent point, ensured Albion stayed in tier two for another season. He was voted PoY for services to BHA. In Mar/Apr of 2001 Adams started Adam in the first eleven as deputy for Danny Cullip. He had come through Youth ranks and was one of the first to show the club's policy was working. Dean Hammond (no.27/22), Dan Harding (no.19/26), Adam Hinshelwoood (no.24) and Adam El-Abd (no.28) were others who made the grade during those early noughties. He made a few appearances under Taylor and Coppell in the no.22 shirt but did a spell away on-loan as Albion struggled in div1. It was McGhee who kick-started his career with no.19 printed on back of b&w stripes. Clock this reserve team-sheet for a night in December 2003; Keeley, Watson, Harding, Virgo, Hinshelwood, Pethick, Marney, Pitcher, Lee, Windsor, Beck. After New Year, Virgo got a position at right back and held it as Albion claimed a knockout spot. Any Brighton fan who remembers play-offs of 2004 knows it was Virgo who got a very, very late equaliser to send a s-f tie to penalties - see Swindon history tab. Adam Virgo was on-loan from Scotland to Coventry and Colchester, when Adams had jobs at those clubs in 2006 & 2007. Adam said, 'I had other offers but the gaffer said all the right things. I am 25 now, I thank him for the opportunity he has given me. I was unfortunate with injuries and things didn't happen. I just want to enjoy football again.' Micky Adams said, 'if he can replicate what he did in his first spell then we have got a player relatively cheap.' AV asked for shirt no.23.
During '08/9 Virgo was pretty much first choice throughout, barring a couple of bans for two red cards. For '9/10 AV got to play in his preferred position at cent def from Aug but wasn't able to hold down regular selection under GP as boss. Virgo fought his way back for 2010 but could be considered unfortunate to be sent off at Leeds in Feb. From then on he slipped further in pecking order and out of 1st 11 contention. Virgo's contract was not renewed by Gus Poyet for season '10/11 - the last one at Withdean. So Adam joined Nathan Jones at Yeovil following a successful trial.

in 2007-2010 out - Nicky Forster (League One)
Forster was nearly 34yo when signing for 75k in June '07. He had been around the block and came here from Hull, who were then on the up. Forster is remembered prior to his stint at BHA, as the sub for Reading who netted against us with a dodgy hand-ball - but it was given! In '07/8 Nicky scored 19 times during a fair season under Dean Wilkins when pushing for a play-off place. He twice reached 16 in subsequent terms, often alongside Glenn Murray in a useful striking duo. Forster managed to retain a quick turn of pace that caught out many a defender at lower league. NF was blessed with a football brain, as well as skillful feet and a will to win. He knew the game back to front and kept clear of serious injury from cloggers who might target match winners. A Surrey born sportsman, Nicky fancied going on to a career in footy after playing. He had his own opinions, some of which would involve differences. Forster left Albion late in '9/10 season, following a dispute with Gus Poyet over offer of contract renewal. He then joined Brentford in league1 and went on to be interim manager in '10/11. Hung up boots and decided on a career in footy management.

2008 out - Dean Hammond (League One, Championship)
After rejecting a new offer, no.11 Dean Hammond joined Colchester for 250k in the January transfer window of 2008. He was a home-grown player who came through ranks to be an influential member of Wilkins '07/8 squad but moved on before signing a contract that would have made him a top earner at BHA.
In December 2006, Cheltenham Town had gone back to Gloucestershire very late on a Saturday night having been defeated at Withdean by an 11th hour penalty. Player of the year in '06/7, Dean Hammond got a brace of goals that evening. His coolly taken spot-kick completed a consecutive but ultimately rare home win to push Albion into the top ten. Brighton seemingly could double their average tally as expected and then a few bonus points would send us into play-off contention as in '03/4. Er, no. Robins eventually did go bobbing along, while Seagulls merely defecated in their own nest.
In May 2004, Brighton fans were preparing to get into play-offs, then hoped to knockout opponents Swindon and go see their heroes run out as winners at the Millennium Stadium. Hammond had not figured in that plucky super squad, which was worthy of a shot at regaining Championship status. Latter units were a long way off such fanciful aspirations. Anyway, Hammond had been a stalwart in a useful reserves side that strolled through to contend the Sussex Senior Cup final. A string of half decent performances in their Combination league as well, reflected the driving force that was Hammond and Lee in mid-field. Unlike his Sussex born colleague's career afterwards, Dave Lee (no.23) was never able to break into the first eleven on a regular basis and was released by Mark McGhee. Brighton seconds contested for silverware against Worthing FC and led from an early penalty on May Bank Holiday Monday. For over an hour the result hung in balance as West Sussex seasiders went for it. They had been runners-up in Ryman div1 south and appeared well organised. On 73 minutes a superb move down the right flank resulted in a high ball into the centre. From around the D, Hammond smashed a volley goalwards. The ball went into a bottom corner and if it had happened in a p-o decider at Withdean, the place would have erupted on cue. It was a fantastic goal that won Albion the cup, although when Hammond held it up there was something of an anticlimax without typical noisy away support on hand.
The following season of '04/5, Hammond wearing no.22 was in and out of the first team but finally established his credentials as a local lad done good. Very late in that campaign to hold on to a Championship place, he got two goals against West Ham at Withdean in a precious 2-2 draw. Both were headers and the second came in the last minute from a Carpenter (no.12) cross. By the next game, no. 45, Albion had accumulated 50 points and needed one more to ensure continued status, which was still considered success, if actually not quite suitable consolidation. Hammond had made the grade and went on to make 40 appearances at no.11 in the Championship of '05/6. Brighton were relegated on Easter Monday as McGhee's misfiring, misplaced and mismanaged charges lost yet again at home. Hammond got sent off for two bookables after 80 minutes to prematurely end his season. This fortuitously expired before he witnessed the team's last day dire display versus Stoke City. That marked a required evolution - if not exactly to say revolution for '06/7. With 46 apps and 11 goals he became regarded as an experienced player in his prime and important to future success. DH got to wear the captains armband at and established as a goal-scoring midfielder. His loss during the middle of a possible play-off season in '07/8 did make a difference to continuity of results expected from a settled side. Hammond joined Southampton in Aug 2009 to join up with coach Dean Wilkins there.

in 2005-2006 out - Colin Kazim-Richards (Championship)
Those who saw Kazim-Richards playing for Turkey in Euro 2008 must have wondered how he'd ended up in warmer climes than Sussex by the sea. He was transfered away from BHA in late August 2006 after turning out for 45 min in a reserve match at Woodside Road, Worthing. There were issues between Brighton management and the single-minded striker who made a subs appearance in the opening game of '06/7. Mark McGhee with backing of Mr Knight, transferred Kazim-Richards to Sheffield United for 150k and he went from League1 to the Premiership in one foul swoop.
In pre-season of 2005, a young Brighton fan won 250k in a 'buy a player' competition. 19yo Colin was at Bury and came over to Albion, thereafter to be known as the Coca-cola kid. He was a Brit but with Antiguan and Cypriot roots. For once Brighton was flush with dosh, having sold Adam Virgo (ex-no.19) for 1.5 million and 450k tribunal settlement for Dan Harding (ex-no.26) going to Leeds, plus sell-on clause. McGhee said, 'there are good players to be had at the right price - as I think we've proved with the acquisition of C K-R.' McGhee also got Argentinian Federico Turienzo (no.8) in for a supposed 150k to his agent. Also a couple of Frenchmen, Seb Carole (no.17) and Alex Frutos (no.19). Alexis Nicolas (no.6) got aboard and had U21 selection for yeah, wasn't it Cyprus? Experienced Jason Dodd (no.5) arrived from along the coast with Prem credentials. It was hoped Brighton could now consolidate in the Championship with these additions to the squad. CKR wore no.22 and made 42 apps, scoring 6 goals in '05/6. Nearly all were sensational strikes, truly worthy of higher standard. Colin became a bit of a super-sub in a bitter season of disappointment otherwise. It was common knowledge McGhee was tearing his relegation threatened hair out trying to tame the impulsive and free spirited front runner. At end of term with Albion demoted, McGhee said, 'we must be determined to keep all our best players'. Turienzo made one start and 3 subs apps and was quickly let go. Carole didn't come back a second time, having disappeared to Leeds. Frutos stayed and played in '06/7 but became another foreign liability. Alexis Nicolas didn't seem to make the grade afterall. Dodd was always injured and went west from where he came. A few days after Kazim-Richards bolstered his anticipated successful career, McGhee was sacked by Mr Knight and those mega bucks buying and selling days were over for a while. It was good while it lasted.

in 2003-2005 out - Leon Knight (League One, Championship)
At Xmas 2005 and New Year 2006 Albion were really up against it in the Championship of '05/6. On Boxing Day, Charlie Oatway (no.10) was crocked versus of all teams QPR at Withdean. It was also no.7 Leon Knight's last start. We'd been done 0-3 away at Luton in that stupid fixture compressed between one old year's festival and another brand new knees-up. Failed S. American Federico Turienzo (no.8) made his only start up the M1. Then sinking Albion lost at home to Millwall next. Leon Knight came on as sub, in a year when it all ended in tears - for Mark McGhee! On the bus to a Happy New Year fixture at Southampton, supposedly Knight verbally fell out with the gaffer. Michel Kuipers (no.1) got involved and neither player figured in this match. Ex-Saint Jason Dodd (no.5) made the coffee at half-time but only because he was fit to do so. Brighton lost again and things were coming apart. By that transfer window of end of January, Knight had departed way over the Welsh threshold in League1. He'd made 111 league apps and netted 35 times over three seasons. As seller McGhee counted on fingers his dosh in multiples of 10k, he wondered on the value of each of Leon's often fantastic scoring achievements.
Steve Coppell had procured services of the Chelsea front man, on loan for beginning of a League1 campaign in 2003. Bobby Zamora (no.25) had left for Spurs and BHA needed somebody to fill a void after relegation. With massive changes at Stamford Bridge, Leon Knight quickly signed permanently for '03/4 and went on to record excellent stats in what became a promotion year - 25 goals from 42 apps. He hit the winning penalty in Cardiff to send Albion back to the Championship against the odds. When Mark McGhee took over in Nov '03, Knight scored a brace at Peterborough to impress his new boss. It was tougher for LK back in the Championship of '04/5 as Leon struggled to find the net. Knight was lucky by remaining injury free but it ran out with his disciplinary record. Apart from regular yellow cards he also got into trouble with McGhee. He was tried in a variety of forward roles and also as something of a playmaker, where he was effective. However Leon wanted to take, rather than make goals and had to settle for being penalties first choice as others got glory from open play. His 90th min winner at Sheff Utd in Jan '05 was typical of predatory instincts. With better service he might have notched a greater tally.
Knight had a spell at MK Dons but became something of a journeyman. He had plenty of talent, super skills and was also good in the air. He knew quite a bit about self belief but his ego got in the way of relationships with people he shouldn't really offend. Leon next played for a dozen or so clubs in the UK and a few abroad too, when last reported in 2010. He said he was a changed man now, with responsibilities like a partner and kids - OMG.

in 2002-2003 out - Paul Kitson (Championship)
Brighton had reached div1 for their fourth year at temporary Withdean in an historic rise from previous depths of decline. But progress stalled as Albion hit a long losing run, to prop up the division and stare relegation in the face from late summer of 2002. New manager Martin Hinshelwood had a very short period to prepare for life in tier two and BHA kicked off the '02/3 season with a basic squad that had secured back-back promotions through lower leagues. He quickly got ex-Prem striker Paul Kitson to the club, a player with plenty of experience at higher grade. After all he'd been with Leicester, Derby, Newcastle and West Ham in a career of over 300 games. Bobby Zamora (no.25) was crocked very early in this campaign, so having a pukka front-man to lead our line was initially considered a blessing in disguise. Paul was from the north-east but came south after injury. However after four fixtures, 31yo Kitson was on the physio's bench again and didn't figure in the first team for another five months. He then made a single sub's app against Pompey at home in January 2003, following hamstring problems. Brighton's no.27 wasn't seen again apart from reserves run-outs until April, during a frantic run-in while scrapping for survival. Kitson made 10 appearances in total and scored 2 goals. Steve Coppell brought him on for 20 mins at Reading and he duly netted to put Albion two up. Kitson figured in final contests but it was too little too late - we went down and he just went.

in & out 2002 - Junior Lewis (League One)
During the first half of the '01/2 promotion campaign in div2, Brighton had lost only once away from fortress Withdean in 2001. Peter Taylor was seemingly steering BHA onward and upwards just like Micky Adams before. Then as return fixtures started for 2002, Albion lost 0-3 at Wigan, 0-2 at home to Preston in FAC3 and 0-4 on a nightmare evening in Brentford in January. Taylor wanted to keep on track and got Junior Lewis in for an early Feb trip to Oldham - we got beat again 0-2. Brighton did suffer defeat once more, at Stoke 1-3 but Lewis made a big difference to midfield as the run-in recorded vital wins to help us to a successive title. Junior Lewis was on loan from Leicester where Peter Taylor had previously been manager. He took a vacant no.6 shirt, available since Andy Crosby (ex-no.6) departed before New Year. In 16 apps he scored 4 times and those were vital goals for keeping a promotion challenge going.
Lewis was a Londoner who played for Gillingham when boss Taylor took them up to div1 in 2000. Previously the Taylor-Lewis combination had been at non-league Dover. As a lanky six footer, Junior could have played in defence or attack and was something of a utility player. He'd netted plenty of times as front man for Hendon in younger days. Taylor said, 'it's like signing three players.' Lewis slotted in straight away and already knew some of the squad, whose team spirit was second to none. He provided a touch of class as Albion obtained 32 points by May or 2pts/gm average that won us the league. Mr Taylor declined to be Brighton boss subsequently and moved around a lot for an experienced coach. Junior Lewis was obviously on his list of usual suspects for enhancing various other squads. They were together in non-league at last count.

in 2001-2002 out - Simon Morgan (League One)
When Junior Lewis was an apprentice at Fulham before 1992, defender Simon Morgan signed for the Cottagers. This was well before their lower league rise under Micky Adams and big-time giant leap with Al Fayed finances. In 2001 Adams assembled another promotion winning outfit at Albion and brought the experienced Morgan down from west London. He then played over 40 league games for BHA in '01/2 to finish a career of over 550 apps with a champions medal. Job done he went back to Fulham where he'd been promised a back-room position for life. Virtually ever present wearing the no.5 shirt in rearguard with (no.4) Danny Cullip, this selection formed a formidable defensive pairing as Brighton charged right through tier three. Likes of Andy Crosby (no.6) and Matt Wicks (no.23) couldn't get picked to start and both moved out, while Peter Taylor largely kept faith with Adams preferences. Morgan was an unsung, if perhaps forgotten hero who ensured Brighton attained their tier two status and personally suffered for devotion to duty. Simon's knees were a bit creaky to say the least and he had to have injections to maintain mobility. Quite how he managed to turn-out week after week was a mystery to physios and medical teams patching up an ageing centre half, who was half as fit as others but reliable, dependable and defensive in the extreme. The 35yo even got a goal at Withdean when upfield from a second attempted set piece versus Northampton. It was his first score since 1999 when in similar league circumstances, with champ's chasing Fulham on their way to div1. Talk about what goes around eventually, also quite often comes around. He went back to Fulham for an admin job and later joined Prem Lg in their community development.

in 2001-2003 out - Robbie Pethick (League One, Championship)
After being a non-playing sub at Swindon for the last div2 fixture of 2003, Robbie Pethick went on loan to Weymouth in non-league. He'd gone full circle, having started there as a fresh-faced kid. He came to Brighton from Bristol Rovers as part of Micky Adams intrepid excursion into div2 that first time for '01/2 and played under Steve Coppell in div1 of '02/3. By Mark McGhee's tenure and play-off chasing squad of '03/4, Pethick found it harder to get a starting place. Robbie had joined Brighton in pre-season of 2001 with Geoff Pitcher (no.7) from non-league, Dirk Lehmann (no.16) via Scottish footy and ex-Fulham stalwart Simon Morgan (no.5). Apart from Morgan the others were used mainly as subs and not regular first eleven starters. Lehmann was gone by Xmas and Pitcher's BHA career withered on the vine by New Year 2002. Pethick who was regarded as a defender, got selected for a spell as Peter Taylor sought a line-up to take us up. In the no.26 strip, Robbie became a utility player often subbing front runners as Taylor switched shape during the run-in contests. Under Martin Hinshelwood and Steve Coppell in div1 of '02/3, Robbie wore no.14 and his position was initially at full back, part of a 5 man c-d, or later in mf. When Dean Blackwell (no.5), Simon Rodger (no.30/8) and Ivar Ingimarsson (no.20) were brought in, he lost his place in the squad. Pethick was no.6 for '03/4 and career injuries to Blackwell and Rodger gave opportunities for selection. But McGhee kept faith with Nathan Jones (no.15), introduced Yeates (no.11) and Rehman (no.34) on loan and brought on youngsters like Hinshelwood (no.24), El-Abd (no.28), Harding (no.26) and finally Virgo (no.19). The writing was on the wall and for those at fringes it said, 'go west - now or later.'

in 2000-2002 out - Lee Steele (League Two & One)
At end of the '01/2 campaign Brighton finished as div2 title holders and the whole squad celebrated a second success on the bounce. None more so than Lee Steele, a striker who wore no.14 this term after unlucky no.13 previously. Striker Steele got 9 goals from around 40 apps, many of which were as sub. That was good compared to 2 strikes from 23 apps in '00/01, where he started only 4 times as aux front-man. Steele signed for Brighton as Micky Adams built a div3 promo side in 2000. He had come from Shrewsbury and initially non-league Northwich Victoria. His ratio of one goal every three games looked a useful stat when Albion would need to score 70 odd at tier four to go up. Other new additions Kuipers (no.1), Carpenter (no.12), Brooker (no.11), Zamora (no.25), Jones (no.15), Wicks (no.23) and Melton (no.20) all had super seasons but Steele stalled on fringes. Lee didn't pick up a yellow or red in '00/01 but his disciplinary record was Prem style bad-boy. Micky Adams changed his strip number for '01/2 and with Darren Freeman (ex-no.7) forced to retire, set up Steele as super-sub. Dirk Lehmann (no.16) was up front with Zamora. Soon he graduated to start and after Peter Taylor arrived as boss post Adams, held a strikers place and Lehmann transferred. While Albion wobbled in winter of 2002, so did Lee as Daniel Webb (no.30) got aboard but he returned for the run-in and played his part in a successive promotion. Lee's 90+ min diving, headed winner at home versus Bristol City, is forever archived in annals of Albion folklore. Taylor said, 'they were one of the best sides to visit Withdean this season.' Steele beat their off-side trap, dove in, stole the points and also our hearts on all fools day that April 1st. He received a champ's medal, although like Adams and Taylor set off for assumed greener grass outside Sussex.

in 1998-2000 out - Rod Thomas (League Two)
Ex-Albion hero and short-term manager Brian Horton bought winger Rod Thomas for 25k from Chester in October 1998. He wasn't so-far removed from notching 300 apps. Permanently skint Dick Knight had been given some dosh by Brighton fans and Thomas got labelled as the peoples' player. He made 12 apps in '98/99 and scored 3 goals. In Micky Adams Withdean era revolution, Thomas scored a blinder in that 6-0 demolition of Mansfield on day1 in high summer 1999. Believe it or not he didn't get another goal for Albion in 33 further apps, although received a return red card in defeat at Field Mill to square the circle. As you can imagine Adams wasn't too pleased and was forever trying to curtail the little no.11 from using ball-skills etc in our third. During Brighton's successful term when gaining elevation to div2 in 2001, Thomas now wearing no.16 made 2 league appearances as sub very early in this 2nd W'dean era season. He was on the bench for a couple of months, then in reserves, then... out with the washing, if not out of contract by springtime.
* * * * *

W'dean Goalkeepers '99-'11

WITHDEAN ERA 1999 - 2011
Brezovan, Ankergren, Poke and Walker 2010 - 2011 League One.
Michael Poke came from So'ton during pre-season to be back-up to Peter Brezovan. However, the big Slovenian busted his wrist before start of hostilities and Gus Poyet had a problem. Poke played in friendlies and an early Lge Cup tie but appeared shaky. On day1 GP got in Casper Ankergren, previously of Leeds, to be new no.1. He done good and got PoM for September with clean sheets. Brezovan was reserve keeper, so didn't return to 1st 11 duties until FA Cup r1/2 and respective replays, then r3,4&5. Ankergren kept goalies jersey for league fixtures and done good, getting a second PoM for March as BHA romped to 8 straight wins when leading L1 by a clear margin. Poke and Walker (who did a spell on loan) turned out in reserves and for BHA seconds in the Sussex Senior Cup competition.

Kuipers, Smith and Brezovan 2009 - 2010 League One.
Graeme Smith (no.22) arrived in pre-season '09 from Motherwell, with good reports from Mark McGhee. Russ Slade was now gaffer and Tony Godden keeper coach. GS got an early chance between sticks when Kuipers (no.1) was sent-off up north. Unfortunately loadsa goals went in for all comps and worryingly, continued to whenever the Scot got selected later. In New Year, new boss Gus Poyet sorted out his squad and Smith went back to Scots lg, going to Hibs on a free. GP got Peter Brezovan (no.29) for free (ex-Swindon) and he looked and got the part straight away when FDM was crocked. MK next resumed duties for 2010 but lost his place in Feb. By end of that month he'd busted a finger in training and was kaput again. Brezovan became numero uno by default but done good anyway. Danny Naisbitt (no.35) came in from Histon as cover coz Poyet wouldn't risk kid keepers Mitch Walker (no.13) or Josh Pelling (no.31). Michel didn't get a new contract but a job off the field was offered. Also his testimonial to be played at Falmer - fitting tribute to a loyal servant. FDM soon signed for Crawley Town as Reds numero uno under old on-loan Boston boss Steve Evans.

Kuipers and Sullivan. 2008 - 2009 League One.
Goal-keepers seem to go on forever so there was plenty of time for FDM to get his old numerical allocation of no.1 back and continue first choice on the team-sheet. So, as that season's anticipated if not expected success faltered, Sullivan (no.13) got a chance at last. He made a debut in '08/9 when FDM got injured. Could he hold the shirt? According to (no.36) ex-coach Paul Crichton (who left for Norwich) yes. But in that great football pyramid, including those holding their gloved hands up, who could really tell? Big Danish kid-keeper Mikkel Andersen (no.40) came in on loan from Reading to hold the fort during an injury crisis. Youth goalie Josh Pelling (no.37) was previously also added to the squad. Sullivan got released and some think he got a raw deal in a year of change.

Kuipers and Flinders. 2006 - 2008 League One.
Former Dutch Marine Michel Kuipers played in all fixtures in '07/8. Although not so during '06/7 when our ex-no.1 (renumbered no.16), a man allowed to handle the ball under rules and regulations but usually in pre-match practice, made only 14 apps. Wayne Henderson (ex-no.1) transferred to Preston and FDM resumed between posts. Hot Palace youngster Scott Flinders (no.1) then signed for late season, reserve loan-goalie duties and stole into numero uno, making 'one' seem a tad uninformed - from his union colleague's uniliteral perspective. Kuipers probably wondered what actually happened to leave him left alone yet again, when Gods of football miraculously moved those proverbial goal posts. He has however been in this predicament before - on more than one occasion.

Henderson, Chaigneau and Blayney. 2005 - 2006 Championship.
In '05/6 dour Scot Mark McGhee had a goal-keeper problem or two and eventually more. Kuipers was recuperating from injury when that third Championship campaign kicked-off. A certain Wayne Henderson (no.28) arrived direct from Aston Villa, on day one at Derby to keep goal for Brighton. The youthful Irishman said, 'I'm ambitious, I want to make a name for myself as a number one. I'd like to think Brighton could be somewhere I could achieve that.' Inside the opening month a very tall young Frenchman had also come abroad and signed for a years stint in vying for now international custodian's gloves. Florent Chaigneau (no.40) came over from FC Rennes but without a lot of competitive experience, at that time being just twenty one Chaigneau didn't merely dream of a nightmare at Shrewsbury in the League Cup, as Brighton conceded three there in extended cavalier knockout style. Six weeks into the season Alan Blayney (no.23) from N Ireland, also joined via Southampton and effectively became number two between the sticks. Blayney then deputised when Henderson returned to Villa right at the end of October. Kuipers (no.1) had meanwhile made a comeback in reserves and trotted out for Albion in their festive Boxing Day fixture at Withdean. Blayney too had departed as 'on-loans' expired, while Chaigneau resumed warming the bench for a third keeper, in lieu of any further 'entente cordiale' appearances. On a New Year's Day trip to Southampton, after a team-bus altercation concerning manager Mr McGhee and striker Leon Knight (no.7), Chaigneau got to replace Kuipers under the cross-bar at unforgiving St Mary's. Five days later he proffered a goal-mouth Gallic shrug, following a tame exit from an FA Cup round3 tie at Withdean - as McGhee despaired yet again on the hostile Sassenach south-coast of Sussex. Amid these multi-national comings and goings, Kuipers kept goal for two adjacent fixtures before Henderson was reinstalled permanently. Brighton boy Richard Martin (no.13) took over as bench-man, Chaigneau quickly reduced to a forlorn Frenchman, McGhee was the henchman come hangman and who'd be a forgotten Dutchman? McGhee always selected a sub goalie in his match-day sixteen and for '06/7, Henderson assumed king-pin no.1 and Kuipers made no.16 - ironical huh, when unused no.13 was considered unlucky. You know the rest via folklore.

Yelldell, Shaaban and Blayney. 2004 - 2005 Championship.
Previous shenanigans of an in-front of the net kind, ensued during '04/5, following Kuipers shoulder injury versus Forest at W'dean. A giant goalie from Blackburn reserves played for Brighton at Leeds in a pink jersey. This instant impact lasted only three games for David Yelldell (no.23), as fourteen days in Jan-Feb highlighted an off colour on-loan fashion statement. Yelldell had an American father but after little glory, saw more stars than stripes at Albion. Rami Shaaban (no.20) was his immediate replacement and also had foreign connections. He was eligible to play for Sweden and did so in '06 World Cup. However, prior to a short engagement at Brighton, he was recovering from serious injury at Arsenal. Shaaban played the next six games through Feb-Mar, including four consecutive near catastrophic defeats. Brighton fell from a healthy position before the run-in to dispute a desperate dog-fight for survival. Alan Blayney (no.23) was drafted in to stop the rot and try and keep a crucial clean sheet for Brighton to finally get the point. He did save a couple of penalties and saw us to safety. Ben Roberts (no.29) eventually had been forced to retire due to persistent back pains and Blayney was thought of as a likely Championship goalie for consolidating next term.

Roberts and Flitney. 2003 - 2004 League One.
Kuipers (no.1) and Roberts (no.29) had shared handling formalities throughout '03/4 until FDM survived a horrific car smash in late November. Michel was admitted to hospital but sustained relatively minor injuries. Another kid keeper, Ross Flitney (no.31) from Fulham had been called in as cover for two injury prone custodians and made a couple of appearances. Steve Jones (no.31) took over for a brace of matches away from home, when Brighton really struggled to accumulate points on the long road to Wales that term. Roberts got back to fitness as the push for a play-off place intensified. Coach John Keeley (no.32) had even been 16th man over mid-season periods but eventually Kuipers became back-up for an all important run-in and play-offs.

Petterson, Roberts and Beasant. 2002 - 2003 Championship.
During a tough start to life in div1 of '02/3, Andy Petterson (no.30) played eight losing games before FDM resumed between posts. Ben Roberts (no.13) initially visited Brighton as a stand-in after Kuipers was injured in an FA Cup r3 tie at Norwich in Jan, that fateful relegation campaign from tier two. He turned out three times and impressed enough for Steve Coppell to want him permanently in div 2. Meanwhile Dave Beasant (no33) did the 'do' until a cliff-hanger of a finish at Grimsby on the first Sunday in May. He was so old, Keelo refused to coach him but brought up a constant supply of reinvigorating sports drinks, that were intravenously drip-fed prior to springtime Saturday afternoons - allegedly!!

Kuipers, Royce and Cartwright. 2000 - 2002 League Two & One.
In '01/2 and '00/01 back-to-back title winning seasons, Michel was first choice keeper and racked up over 70 apps. Simon Royce (no.31) deputised for six matches after Xmas 2001 in div2. At start of div3 campaign the previous term, Mark Cartwright (no.19) was in goal for a dozen contests. Kuipers (no.1) was an inexperienced import from Bristol Rovers in summer of 2000 and had to establish his place. He did so and proved to be a capable, if not to say long-serving custodian.

Walton & Ormerod. 1999 - 2000 League Two
Micky Adams had two goalies already on BHA books when arriving at Priestfield in April of the '98/99 term. Mark Ormerod (no.1) started a BHA homecoming campaign at Withdean in 1999 as no.1 custodian but soon was left behind the net, rather than in front of it. Mark Walton (no.15) took over between the sticks and made a fist of it on more than one occasion. Adams assumed he would handle everything for a promo season next time - but no. Walton surprisingly signed for Cardiff in pre-season of '00/01, while Ormerod was released. So Adams had to cast around for a keeper with potential.
* * * * *

W'dean 2nd & 3rd Revolutions '08-'11

WITHDEAN ERA... 2008 - 2011 League One.
2nd Revolution '08-'09 League One.
Micky ADAMS returned to BHA in May 2008 following publication of Dean Wilkins retained list. Guy Butters and Paul Reid were let go, along with Kerry Mayo, Gary Hart, Sam Rents and Frenchman David Martot. Adam Hinshelwood was given more time to recover from serious knee injuries. Doug Loft was also retained for '08/9. But Wilkins went too as Adams brought in old bouy Adam Virgo (Celtic), winger Kevin McLeod (Colchester), central defender Colin Hawkins (Coventry) and lb/mf David Livermore (Hull) on free transfers. He also brought back lb Matt Richards on loan from Ipswich. Keeper Michel Kuipers was one remaining from MA's original rev1 squad and then Hart & Mayo re-signed. Adams already knew rb Andy Whing from sky-blue days and a few who'd come thru youth ranks like utility-man Adam El-Abd and forward Jake Robinson. Others from Wilkins successful if various U18 outfits, were goalie John Sullivan, defs Joel Lynch and Wes Fogden, m-f's Dean Cox, Tommy Fraser and Scott Chamberlain, strikers Joe Gatting and Sam Gargan and previous PoY c-d Tommy Elphick. Striker Nicky Forster (capt) was on the books since start of '07/8, while partner Glenn Murray, cmf Steven Thomson and fwd Jonny Dixon joined mid-term when Wilkins revamped a supposed p-o chasing first eleven. Adams added m-f loanees Joe Anyinsah (fwd - Preston), Kevin Thornton (fwd - Coventry), Brad Johnson (mf - Leeds) and Robbie Savage (mf - Derby). Later striker Stuart Fleetwood (Charlton) arrived, after Fogden and Gatting left. Kids Kane Wills, Kane Louis, Dan Royce, Andy Pearson, Steve Brinkhurst and Steve Cook got given their own squad numbers as young pro's. In the Jan '09 transfer window, Adams signed m-f's Chris Birchall (ex-Coventry), Jason Jarrett (Preston), winger Seb Carole (ex-Leeds) and striker Calvin Andrew (Palace) on loan. On day of the deadline he got left back Jim McNulty (Stockport 150k) and striker Craig Davies (Oldham). Then with BHA in bottom four, Adams went in Feb '09 and White & Booker took charge. An injury crisis meant extra bods arrived thru necessity. Lloyd Owusu (fwd - Cheltenham), Matt Heath (c-d - Colchester), Al Bangura (mf - Watford), Mikkel Andersen (gk - Reading) and Gary Borrowdale (lb - QPR) all came in on loan. Russell SLADE then became manager on a short contract from Mar '09. He got in Gary Dicker (mf - Stockport) on loan.
Year10 Squad, 2008 - 2009
1 Kuipers, 2 Whing (PoY), 3 Mayo, 4 Hinshelwood, 5 Lynch (loaned), 6 El-Abd, 7 Cox, 8 Thomson (transferred) then Jarrett, 9 Forster, 10 Thornton (loan) then Birchall, 11, McLeod, 12 Richards later Heath (loan), 13 Sullivan, 14 Livermore (loaned), 15 Hart, 16 Hawkins, 17 Murray, 18 Loft (loaned), 19 Robinson (loaned), 20 Gatting (released) then McNulty (serious injury), 21 Dixon (loaned), 22 Fraser, 23 Virgo, 24 Elphick, 25 Chamberlain (released) then Davies, 26 Fogden (rel) later Fleetwood (loan) then Andrew (short loan), 27 Johnson (loan) then Dicker (loan), 28 Anyinsah (loan) then Carole, 29 Wills, 30 Louis, 31 Royce, 32 Pearson, 33 Gargan, 34 Cook, 35 Brinkhurst, 36 Crichton (GK coach - left), 37 Pelling, 38 Owusu (loan), 39 Bangura (loan), 40 Andersen (gk loan), 41 Borrowdale (loan), 44 Savage (short loan).

3rd Revolution '09-'11 League One.
One way or another things were different for 2009-10. Tony Bloom secured funding for Falmer with a multi-million financial injection. He also took over the chairmanship, while blue & white Knight became President. Within 3 months TB exercised owners rights to power.
SLADE got the boss-job permanently pre-Falmer and swung the axe. He released Mayo, Hinsh, Jarrett, Birchall, Sullivan, Loft, Robinson, Fraser, Carole, Gargan and later Dixon, also four young pro's. Lynch went to Forest as expected. But Owusu signed for Adelaide. So he signed Dicker permanently, then got m-f Matt Thornhill (Forest) on loan. Next came defender James Tunnicliffe (Stockport), plus winger Mark Wright (MKD), followed by cmf Andrew Crofts (Gillingham) and g-k Graeme Smith (Motherwell). In pre-season came striker Liam Dickinson (Derby), defender Jake Wright (Crawley), m-f kid Jamie Smith (CP) and m-f general Alan Navarro (MKD). Later came wingers Elliott Bennett (Wolves) and Arron Davies (Forest - loan). Kid Mitch Walker was added to GK union. Right back Gavin Hoyte also came in on loan from Arsenal reserves. Slade went in early Nov '09 and Bloom made another appointment. Gus POYET became manager and now got promoted to numero uno coz previously he'd only made assistant. Keeper Peter Brezovan (Swindon) got here before Xmas '09. In New Year '10 rb Inigo Calderon signed from Alaves in Spain. Then Seb Carole came back week to week for a third spell. Also lb Marcos Painter joined from Swansea on loan. In Jan transfer window, striker Chris Holroyd came in from Cambridge. Followed later by winger Kaz LuaLua on loan from Newcastle. Next came m-f's on loan Diego Arismendi via Stoke, then a little later Lee Hendrie out of Derby. On March final loan xfer day, forward Ashley Barnes (Plymouth) and keeper Danny Naisbit (Histon) also joined a revised squad. BHA youngsters Lewis Dunk and Jake Caskey got pro terms and joined the squad at the death. Jake became the youngest player to play for the first team.
Year 11 Squad, 2009 - 10
1 Kuipers (injured), 2 Whing (loaned out), 3 McNulty (loaned out), 4 Elphick, 5 Wright J (loaned out), 6 El-Abd, 7 Cox, 8 Navarro, 9 Forster (loaned out), 10 Dickinson (loaned out), 11 McLeod (transfer), then LuaLua (on loan), 12 Tunnicliffe (loaned out), 13 Walker, 14 Livermore (left), then Arismendi (on loan), 15 Hart, 16 Hawkins (long injury), 17 Murray, 18 Dicker, 19 Wright M (transfer), later Davies A (short loan), then Calderon. 20 Crofts, 21 Thornhill (short loan), later Carole, 22 Smith G (transfer), later Painter (on loan), 23 Virgo, 24 Smith J, 25 Davies C (loaned out), 26 Bennett, 27 Hoyte (on loan), 28 Barker, 29 Brezovan, 30 Cook, 31 Pelling, 32 Brinkhurst, 33 Holroyd, 34 Hendrie (on loan), 35 Naisbitt (on loan), 36 Barnes (on loan), 37 Dunk, 38 Caskey.

Gus POYET didn't renew contracts of Forster (Brentford), Cox (Orient), Virgo (Yeovil), Kuipers (Crawley), Pelling and Brinkhurst (E Boro). Crofts transferred to Norwich early in close season. Hawkins (Fingal) also left, while Wright went to Oxford, Dickinson got a job at Barnsley and Davies penned for Chesterfield. McNulty went back on-loan to Scunny and Tunnicliffe to Bristol R for season.
GP re-signed Brezovan (injured), Smith, Cook, Dunk and goalie Walker. Painter signed full terms before pre-season. Calderon didn't initially pen what was again offered and this deal only got completed early in June. Michael Poke (So'ton) said yes to poss no.2 keeper spot soon afterwards. Just prior to pre-season, midfielder Agustin Battipiedi and forward Cristian Baz both signed from Argentina div3. C-mf Matt Sparrow came in via Scunthorpe. Then Barnes (Plymouth) made his move permanent in first days of July. After first local friendly, c-d Gordon Greer joined from Swindon. Then Bulgarian m-f Radostin Kishishev got a year deal. Spurs youngster, Yaser Kasim got on board too. Just before the first fixture, great Dane, Casper Ankergren came in as no.1 keeper. Next came m-f Liam Bridcutt (Chelsea) on short loan as back-up. By Aug transfer window, GP added winger Kaz LuaLua (loan) and strikers, Norwegian Torbjorn Agdestein and Spaniard Francisco Sandaza. Mauricio Taricco resumed training as stand-by l-b. In Nov, striker Chris Wood came on loan from WBA. In the New Year transfer window, winger Craig Noone arrived from Plymouth.
Year 12 Squad, 2010 - 11
1 Brezovan (injured), 2 Whing (left), 3 Greer, 4 Elphick, 5 Battipiedi, 6 El-Abd, 7 Bennett, 8 Navarro (long injury), 9 Barnes, 10 Sparrow, 11 Baz, 12 LuaLua (long injury), 13 Walker, 14 Calderon, 15 Hart, 16 Ankergren, 17 Murray, 18 Dicker, 19 Poke, 20 Holroyd (loaned), 21 Sandaza (injuries), 22 Painter, 23 Agdestein, 24 Smith, 25 Kishishev, 26 Bridcutt, 27 Taricco, 28 Caskey, 29 Kasim, 30 Cook (loaned), 31 Noone, 32, 33, 34 McNulty (long injury), 35 Tunnicliffe (loaned), 36, 37 Dunk, 38, 39 Wood.
* * * * *

W'dean interim period '06-'08

WITHDEAN ERA 2006 - 2008 League One.
Times surely were a changing.
'06/7 began with Albion back in tier three and Skint as usual to say the least. Wilkins quickly assumed managerial duties and it was make do and mend on the squad front. Striker Alex Revell arrived for day1, followed by c-d Georges Santos. Youth products continued to be developed, although a few loan signings appeared to boot. Sam Rents, Wes Fogden, Scott Chamberlain, Tommy Fraser and Paul Hinshelwood continued the rise of BHA kids. Aussie mf Nick Ward joined, with mf Tony Stokes and c-d Keith Lowe as initial loanees. They were later replaced by winger Alistair John, striker Bas Savage, defenders Andy Whing and Zoumana Bakayogo. Others came in like forward Sam Williams, mf Dean Bowditch, later defender Joe O'Cearuill, French middleman Alexis Bertin, goalie Scot Flinders and c-d Zesh Rehman made up a complement of borrowed players. Nathan Elder went full time from non-league.
In '07/8 hitman Nicky Forster signed like back Andy Whing and winger David Martot. Midfielder George O'Callaghan entered the fray on loan, like back Matt Richards. In a flurry of January transfer activity, strikers Glen Murray and Jonny Dixon, mf Steven Thomson and Shane McFaul arrived. Later mf men Dean Bowditch, Ian Westlake and Thiery Racon came down on loan. Sam Gargan was new striking kid on the block.
Years 8-9 Squad 2006 - 2008
1 Henderson (gk) later Flinders (loan gk), 2 Reid then Whing, 3 Mayo, 4 A Hinshelwood, 5 Lynch, 6 El-Abd, 7 Frutos then Cox, 8 Ward (loan) then Revell later Westlake (loan), 9 Hart then Forster, 10 Oatway then O'Callaghan (loan) later Thomson, 11 Hammond later Bowditch much later Racon (loans), 12 Carpenter then Hart, 13 Sullivan (gk), 14 Butters, 15 Revell then Reid, 16 Kuipers (gk), 17 Sullivan (gk) then Savage later Murray, 18 Martin (gk) then Rents, 19 Robinson, 20 Gatting, 21 Molango later Rehman (loan), then Elder later Dixon, 22 Kazim-Richards later Williams, Bowditch, Bertin (loans) then Fraser, 23 Loft, 24 Santos then Elphick, 25 Breach then Chamberlain, 26 Elphick then Fogden, 27 Rents then Martot, 28 Cox then Richards (loan), 29 P Hinshelwood, 30 Fraser, 31 Chamberlain then McFaul, 32 Fogden, 33 Lowe later Whing, Bakayogo (3 loans) then Gargan, 34 Stokes later John (loans), Savage, 35 Elder, 36 O'Cearuill (loan).

At very end of a near-miss campaign in '07/8, when Brighton finished immediately below play-off places, several people lost jobs at the Albion. Dean Wilkins had got a side developed from youth players, strengthened by pro signings and bolstered with loan imports, to perform to good League1 standard. However it was all a bit 'mix and match' and various fringe players made any number of appearances, as Wilkins second season squad changed personnel at regular intervals. During the January transfer window, comings and goings had a detrimental effect on performances, which turned into a sort of 'in and out' season. Long serving trio Kerry Mayo, Gary Hart and Guy Butters were released among a general clear-out prompted by BHA management. Paul Reid was also let go, while others seemingly less skilful got to be retained. Within days Wilkins also was relieved of his position and Micky Adams returned to this club as boss pre-Falmer.

Kerry Mayo (League Two & One, Championship)
It began in Goldstone death throes before 1997, then after what seemed like a flash, Kerry Mayo had actually been at Brighton for twelve years. He received a testimonial for continuous service during the Withdean era prior to start of '07/8. Kerry had by then completed 410 appearances, coming on as sub in the last fixture of that term at our decade-long temporary home. Mayo no.3 was Brighton's usual left back for bulk of seasons but also played in central defence or midfield on occasion. He got to be a regular in the back-back title years of 2001-2002. When Albion were fighting to stay in div1 of '02/3 under Steve Coppell, Kerry had a super season at higher standard. Coppell said, 'he's had a great survival instinct and you must have to stay so long with one club.' In subsequent seasons competition for the place, loss of form or injuries, never stopped Mayo trying to regain selection in the sixteen. In bouts of reserve matches he often took on the senior pro role, remained enthusiastic and a good example to developing youngsters. This 2nds teamsheet was prior to most recent 2008 resurrection; Sullivan, Fogden, Mayo, Wills, Butters, Lynch, Robinson, Loft, Gatting, Dixon, Hart. He'd seemingly bounced back so many times, suggestions of rubber insoles were muted in those nationwide dressing rooms. Mayo said, 'playing for the club is a job and it pays my bills. But being a supporter, I want Falmer to come to life just like anyone else.' The Ginger Prince left on good terms, although Falmer was only a dream as those working years quickly ticked away. During pre-season of '08/9 Micky Adams offered him a job again, nine years after the Withdean era began. Mayo had injuries and didn't figure, so it was no real surprise when he was released a second time. Still, 400 odd games for BHA was quite an achievement in an incredible decade.

Gary Hart (League Two & One, Championship)
As records go, Gary Hart was another stalwart to be given a testimonial match, albeit after termination of a 378 app career. He was on loan to Havant & Waterlooville during '07/8 and Charlie Oatway was glad to have him there. Ex-Albion midfield destroyer Charlie said, 'Gary shared the success that's come the team's way during the last ten years.' That included 3 promotions and 3 terms in the Championship. Dean Wilkins said, 'his versatility and willingness to play in a number of positions have made him a huge hit with supporters.' Hart had some up and down seasons, just like the club but his hay-day was probably at no.9 as a live-wire striker way back in old div3. That he adapted to higher level and turned out in other positions is part of a pukka pro's CV. Micky Adams converted Gary to the right flank after adopting a single striker shape. Hart had come initially from non-league and bagged 12 Albion goals in '98/99 to be joint top scorer. He chipped in with a few each season as BHA rose through ranks by '04/5. Mark McGhee said, 'he could always be relied upon to give one hundred per cent at all times. His work rate and attitude were always excellent.' Gary was tried at right back in reserves combination games and soon had that position in the first team. Brighton struggled in tier two but he soldiered on while a new order evolved. Opportunities became limited beyond '06/7, during development of a young side from a very good youth squad. Hart wanted to give more to BHA but time finally ran out. OGH said, 'I've had almost one manager per year. In just about every season we've been pressing for promotion or fighting relegation. Life has never been dull.' You could say that again. Hart broke a leg at Peterborough in 2002 but got stuck in again subsequently, especially when Albion were up against it versus superior opposition. He liked a good old scrap for sure. Micky Adams offered Harty a lifeline for '08/9 and truth is apparently stranger than fiction. OGH got injured but came back to play a significant part in the great escape under Russ Slade. He offered the old no.9 a contract and we all love a happy ending. Hart also played bit parts under Gus Poyet and was still up for it approaching '10/11. Gary Hart was released by BHA at end of that campaign - Albion's last season at Withdean.
Footnote; Hart was invited to play in the Sussex Senior Cup final at the Amex and scored the first goal there to boot. And so yet another page turns.

Guy Butters (Championship, League One)
One time Spurs, Pompey and Gillingham defender Guy Butters, was a veteran who played over 200 times for Brighton when many others would have dropped to lower level for an easier existence. He said, 'I'm not sure how many games I played down the years.' Introduced to fill a centre-half role by Martin Hinshelwood at Portsmouth in a traumatic start after promotion to div1 in '02/3, Guy played only six games at no.6. Butters certainly was then quickly struck out of favour that term. He appeared once under new mngr Steve Coppell - his first and Butts last. Typically here is a reserves sheet for Mar '03 v Portsmouth - ironical huh; Packham, Hinshelwood, Jones, Pethick, Butters, Hammond, Wilkinson, Rogers, Hart, Barrett, Piercy. GB also did a stint at Barnet on loan. After relegation to lower league for '03/4, B'ton immediately won a place back in the Championship and now, Butters no.14 was incredibly voted player of the season. Mark McGhee said, 'Guy has been fantastic. When I came here there was a question mark over him. It has gone the right way by committing himself to make sure he is in the right shape and by the way he has played.' GB next turned out for 2 terms in defence at tier two, although needing to use his head more rather than legs. Butters said, 'I loved the big games in the Championship. To survive was nothing short of a miracle considering finances at the club. We were going to grounds where everyone was writing us off and coming away with wins. We'd be defending for our lives and then everyone would come into the changing-room and just be laughing. At Brighton you always had some excitement, year in year out.' Guy maintained match fitness and was a regular rearguard selection until '07/8, when mostly sub or emergency cover in League1. Butts did some coaching badges and trundled off fairly happily to Oatway's H&W non-league outfit for a bonus season. He was sad not to say goodbye properly but was offered a job in BHA community services by Dick Knight in pre-season of '08/9. It's a cruel world outside football. Butters turned out for Lewes on-loan with Danny Cullip from Feb '09. He tried his hand at management with Winchester City in 2010.

Paul Reid (Championship, League One)
After a brace of demanding years previously, Paul Reid suffered two long term knee injuries that wrecked seasons '06/7 and '07/8. He was spotted at Bradford City reserves when Brighton were scouting for late additions to a side chasing a play-off place in '03/4 and was given squad no.34. He then got the no.16 shirt for '04/5. An Australian from near Sydney, Reid was an attacking midfielder but during a couple of seasons in the Championship got converted to no.2 at right back. By May 2006 He'd made around 80 lg career apps and scored 4 goals. In Sept 2006 a busted cruciate kept our Aussie down under for almost another year. For season '07/8 Paul played with no.15 on his back, after returning to full fitness. He made a few starts in m-f when others left and a spot was vacant. A second ligament prob during Jan 2008 turned his world upside down again. He'd married, settled in and liked Brighton, eventually taking British citizenship to boot. He later said, 'you need a run of games where you are given a bit of a chance and I haven't found that this year. I thought being versatile and filling different positions has benefited the club. Now it seems like that has been one of my downfalls.' The normally even tempered antipodean anglophile left with criticism of Dean Wilkins management style and had much sympathy from sections of Brighton fans. His perceived role as something of a playmaker never developed while BHA were struggling in tier two and latterly only treading water keeping heads up in tier three. You might say the ball never really broke for a thinking player, who could see a pass and get it on target. Those qualities were in short supply in lower leagues. Reid quickly returned to Australia with Adelaide and the climate was a lot warmer there too.

PS: Dean Wilkins said, 'It is the nature of the game that to be competitive we have to make tough decisions. It may sound like hollow words but I would like to thank each of the players for their professionalism and service and wish them well for the future.'
Dick Knight appointed Micky Adams merely hours afterwards and said, 'we are expanding the managerial team with a very experienced person at the top of it. We need to make this move now to ensure the club moves forward on the playing side at the same pace as it does off the pitch.' Wilkins was offered a coaching job but parted company with the Albion well over a month later. Mayo, Hart, Butters, Reid and Wilkins all loved this club. That was not enough apparently to ensure being treated like part of an extended family. Adams returned to the fold but knew full well, achieving promotion and Championship consolidation were the blood ties that definitely bind. Adams parted company with BHA by mutual consent in Feb '09. QED.
* * * * *

W'dean Championship Years '02-'06

WITHDEAN ERA 2002 - 2006 Championship & League One (divs 1 & 2).
Old Guard Go - going, nearly gone...
Albion reached div1 in 2002 but were back in div2 a year later. Martin Hinshelwood got cent-half Guy Butters, strikers Paul Kitson, John Piercy and loans Graham Barrett and keeper Andy Petterson to the club in his spell at start of div1. He also re-introduced kids Dean Hammond, Dan Harding, Chris McPhee, Adam Virgo, Dan Marney, Shaun Wilkinson, Will Packham, Adam Hinshelwood and Adam El-Abd to the squad. Steve Coppell then brought some of his players in to try and survive at tier two for rest of '02/3. These were c-ds Dean Blackwell and later on loan Ivar Ingimarsson, mf Simon Rodger and borrowed Steve Sidwell, also later keepers Ben Roberts and Dave Beasant and striker Tony Rougier (loans). For 2003 strikers Leon Knight, Darius Henderson (loan), plus goalies Ben Roberts and Ross Flitney and mf Zesh Rehman (loans) were added by Coppell. Jake Robinson and Dan Beck elevated from youth level. Mark McGhee took over as gaffer and got mf Mark Yeates, striker Trevor Benjamin and gk Steve Jones on board via loan system. Later he obtained services of Chris Iwelumo (loan) and Paul Reid for the '03/4 run-in and play-offs. In '04/5 for a 2nd Championship campaign, Alexis Nicolas and Darren Currie joined midfield, Albert Jarrett and Maheta Molango up front and kid Chris May became sub goalie. Much later keepers David Yelldell, Rami Shaaban and Alan Blayney arrived on loan. Toward end of the season c-d Joe Dolan (loan), strikers Steve Claridge (loan) and Mark McCammon swelled numbers. Youngsters Joel Lynch, Dean Cox and Gary Elphick also got allocated shirts.
Years 4-6 Squad 2002 - 2005
1 Kuipers, 2 Watson, 3 Mayo, 4 Cullip, 5 Blackwell then Dolan (loan), 6 Pethick then Nicolas, 7 Knight, 8 Rogers then Rodger, 9 Hart, 10 Oatway, 11 Brooker then Henderson later Yeates (loans), then Currie, 12 Carpenter, 14 Butters, 15 Jones, 16 Reid, 17 Wilkinson later Benjamin (loan), then Molango, 18 Packham then Marney then Jarrett, 19 Virgo, 20 Melton later Ingimarsson (loan), then Piercy later Shaaban (loan gk), 21 McPhee, 22 Hammond, 23 Lee then Yelldell & Blayney (loan gks), 24 Hinshelwood, 25 Zamora then Claridge (loan) later McCammon, 26 Harding, 27 Kitson then Beck later Elphick, 28 Barrett (loan) then El-Abd, 29 Roberts (gk), 30 Petterson (loan gk) then Iwelumo (loan) then Robinson, 31 Flitney later S Jones (loan gks) then Cox, 32 Keeley (coach), 33 Sidwell (loan) later Beasant (loan) then May (gk), 34 Webb then Rehman (loan) then Lynch.

'05/6 was a pivotal year for changes to the previous back-to-back promotions shirt number list. Michel Kuipers eventually lost no.1 due to serious injury in January 2005. Paul Watson no.2 and Nathan Jones no.15 were let go in May '05. No.4 Danny Cullip had been transferred in December 2004 and no.10 Charlie Oatway got crocked at Xmas a year later. That left no.3 Kerry Mayo, no.9 Gary Hart and no.12 Richard Carpenter soldiering on as representitives of a fast fading team-sheet from a truly inspiring first few years of the Withdean era.
Mark McGhee brought in Wayne Henderson and Florent Chaigneau as new custodians, plus Jason Dodd and Paul McShane to bolster defence. Coca-cola kid Colin Kazim-Richards transfered in via competition money, with Argentinian Federico Turienzo, plus French wingers Seb Carole and Alex Frutos. Kids Jake Robinson, Joel Lynch, Dean Cox, Richard Martin and John Sullivan (gks), Gary & Tommy Elphick, Joe Gatting and Chris Breach got squad recognition. Doug Loft from non-league and Gifton Noel-Williams got in on the act for the run-in.
Year 7 Squad 2005 - 2006
1 Kuipers, 2 Reid, 3 Mayo, 4 Hinshelwood, 5 Dodd, 6 Nicolas, 7 Knight later Noel-Williams (loan), 8 Turienzo, 9 Hart, 10 Oatway, 11 Hammond, 12 Carpenter, 13 Martin (gk), 14 Butters, 15 McCammon, 16 McPhee, 17 Carole, 18 Jarrett, 19 Frutos, 20 El-Abd, 21 Robinson, 22 Kazim-Richards, 23 Blayney (loan gk) later Loft, 24 McShane (loan), 26 Breach, 27 G Elphick, 28 Henderson (loan gk), 29 Cox, 30 T Elphick, 31 Sulivan (gk), 33 Gatting, 34 Lynch, 40 Chaigneau (loan gk).
* * * * *

W'dean Old Squad '99-'02

WITHDEAN ERA 1999 - 2000 League Two (div3).
Back in 1999 Brentford completed their programme at that old div3 (league2) grade as champions, while Albion actually celebrated too but bizarrely in 17th place. Our 'home' match at borrowed Gillingham on Boxing Day '98, was witnessed by nearly five thousand against a beatable (when they travelled away from W London) Bees side, with victory for Albion 3-1. Micky ADAMS had come on board that following Spring at Priestfield and for once kept us out of 23rd position, 'held' precariously in each of those three terrible previous seasons. He then put together a side fit for a new era at the Withdean and as they say in Sussex, 'the rest is BHA history'. Adams brought in Charlie Oatway, Paul Watson and Darren Freeman from an old century Brentford clear-out for '99/00. He later also picked up ex-Bees Danny Cullip, who'd recovered from a serious knee injury and twelve months down the line, Bob Booker as Assistant Manager for our centenary year through '00/01. Andy Crosby, Jamie Campbell, Darren Carr, Chris Wilder and Ryan Palmer (defenders), plus Dave Cameron, Aidan Newhouse and Warren Aspinall (forwards) were also initial imported additions to Adams revolution. Keepers Mark Ormerod and Mark Walton, defenders Keith McPherson, Gary Hobson and Ross Johnson, mf Andy Arnott and Paul Armstrong, forwards Rod Thomas and Scott Ramsay, plus fringe players Danny Davis, Ben Andrews and John Westcott all survived Adams 1999 pre-Withdean cull. Danny Marney elevated from youth ranks, as did Chris McPhee, Shaun Wilkinson, Dean Hammond and Will Packham. Ian Culverhouse was semi-retired and reserve team coach, while another senior pro Martin Ling, arrived in March 2000 for the run-in. Lorenzo Pinamonte was a big Italian hope up front who left before Bobby Zamora and Paul Brooker arrived on loan.
Year1 Squad 1999 - 2000
1 Ormerod (GK), 2 Watson, 3 Campbell, 4 McPherson, 5 Carr, 6 Hobson later Brooker (loan), 7 Freeman, 8 Rogers, 9 Hart, 10 Oatway, 11 Thomas, 12 Cameron, 14 Arnott later Marney, 15 Walton (GK), 16 Johnson later Ling, 17 Armstrong, 18 Palmer, 19 Mayo, 20 Westcott, 21 Davis, 22 Ramsay, 23 Andrews 24 Crosby, 25 Newhouse later Zamora (loan), 26 Wilder, 27 Cullip, 28 Aspinall, 30 Packham (GK), 31 Culverhouse, 32 Wilkinson, 33 McPhee, 34 Hammond, 35 Pinamonte (loan).

Paul Rogers (League Two & One)
After pro days were completed, Paul Rogers became a BHA manager - er, in the sales and commercial dept. That's because he's too clever for his own boots! Dick Knight gave him a job in 2003 when Dodge was making numbers up with the playing squad under Steve Coppell. Prior to that disappointing season in div1, Rogers had been club captain and made 118 starts at lower level. Micky Adams brought him to Brighton in 1999, having persuaded the ex-financial trader away from Wigan. He led Seagulls out onto summer green at Withdean for the very first time, against Forest for a homecoming friendly and never looked back. At end of this inaugral season, Rogers had all but been ever present and scored 8 league goals with no.8 on his back. He was also approaching 300 games as a pro, which began late during his mid twenties. Those two seasons that followed and saw back-to-back championships, crowned a career where previously he had held silverware up for Wigan in their emergence toward higher grade football. In '00/01 Brighton initially struggled to secure many points but played better in a League Cup tie at the Den. Paul said, 'after the first few matches playing 442 when results weren't the best for us, the gaffer changed formation (451) for the Millwall game. That gave me more licence to get forward with Chippy and Charlie behind me - it was quite a fluid formation.' Again he'd played in all but one fixture as Albion stormed to head div3. A year later and almost a case of deja vu when BHA went up a second time running, although Rogers was sidelined toward the run-in. Peter Taylor introduced Junior Lewis (no.6) and that rather limited selection in central midfield. On hearing of promotion off the bounce, Rogers said, 'at start of the season, realistically we thought about mid table and pushing for play-offs but continued on a roll.' He went on to turnout for Worthing FC to get a foot in, while pushing a BHA pen to keep his hand in. With Falmer arriving, Dodge got a super managers job with Albion Commercial - oh yes! He was heavily involved with promotion and sale of hospitality and seating for the Amex stadium at Falmer.

Charlie Oatway (League Two & One, Championship)
For the record, Charlie Oatway was Albion's no.10 for 8 seasons, although for the last one and a half didn't make an appearance in blue & white. Charlie was a regular during div3 & div2 back-to-back titles (2001-2), play-off promotion season (2003) and also in the Championship. In 1999 Micky Adams got him to Withdean with Paul Watson (no.2) from Brentford for start of an era. Oatway had also spent some time at Torquay. Being a combative central midfielder with a destroyer role, he picked up several short term injuries as part and parcel of his job. But he suffered a broken ankle at Withdean on Boxing Day 2005 and was subjected to a series of set-backs during rehabilitation and physiotherapy. Although Brighton struggled at tier two, Oatway was then having a half decent season in '05/6. He wasn't an ordinary player, reaching 227 league apps and was an extraordinary bloke. Charlie didn't score many but liked Plymouth, getting a brace there in 1999 in div3 and a consolation in a heavy Championship defeat in '04/5. Oatway was adaptable in tackling the toughest, cleverest or most skillful - he'd kick 'em all. Just before start of the League1 '07/8 campaign he got crocked again in a friendly and it was serious enough to end his FL career. Dick Knight said, 'Charlie joined us as part of Micky Adams revolution and has been an effervescent and inspirational presence ever since. It is sad that after all his hard recovery work over the past eighteen months, injury forced his retirement.' Knight installed Oatway as a member of Albion in the Community team straightaway. Charlie said, 'I feel I can improve the club in certain areas, so I'll be giving it my best. No different from when I was on the pitch.' Oatway was involved in polishing up basic reading and writing skills during sessions with BHA education schemes, so had firsthand experience of this award winning project. Apart from this important work, if not to say calling, he went on to join Havant & Waterlooville as assistant manager to boot. He was popular with squad and fans alike and served this club very well indeed. Before too long Charlie was back, helping bolster morale among reserves and generally being a nuisance in all departments. He was also part of Hinshelwood's coaching team under caretaker management in Nov '09. Not much later CO became CO of coaches when Poyet & co arrived. Suddenly he was 1st 11 coach & reserve team manager and all. He published his life story in 2011 and all proceeds went to Albion in the Community.

Paul Watson (League Two & One)
One of a group of players that initially came to Brighton in 1999, Paul Watson was an integral part of Micky Adams revolution. Paul Rogers (no.8), Andy Crosby (no.24), plus from Brentford like Watson, Charlie Oatway (no.10) and Darren Freeman (no.7) all also arrived to kick-start the Withdean era. He played at right back and throughout a six season career at Albion always held squad no.2. In their third promo campaign of '03/4, Paul sustained injury during February 2004 and didn't play again that term. It was unfortunately start of going downhill. He had virtually been ever present over four successful seasons previously bar odd niggles and suspensions. Being predominately left footed, he bagged several goals from set pieces on the right and equally important, numerous assists for Bobby Zamora's record breaking strikes. Mark McGhee was later playing him in midfield after some problems with maintaining full fitness, following a tough term in div1. Watson resumed in McGhee's Championship squad a further nine months later, having suffered troubles with pain in both feet. Unfortunately Watto started only one fixture at beginning of 2005 and three subs apps in all. He was released when '04/5 finished, recording 197 apps and scoring 14 goals. In fact his last goal was at Port Vale in the last game before BHA were promoted as back-to-back champions in 2002. Paul Watson came from Hastings and was a Brighton fan as well. He played at Gillingham but met up with Micky Adams at Fulham, then going on to Brentford with his ex-player-manager. Of his own special dead-ball skills he said, 'to be honest a lot are the same free kicks and corners that I'd been doing since at Fulham so I've got a bit used to them. The quick ones I took with Bobby was just between him and me. We'd make eye contact and if I'd put it in the right place, nine times out of ten Bobby put it away.' Watson was last seen as a Crawley sub in the Sussex Senior Cup final of May '08. He was released by the Blue Square Prem outfit soon afterwards. Incidentally he'd come on at left back and looked quite ok against a new generation. Paul continued to play at non-league level in Sussex. He rejoined BHA in community footy coaching and took his tickets. In 2009 Watto became asst squad trainer. He had always been interested in sports science and after-all, spent some time on ex-physio Mal Stuart's treatment table! PW was latterly an integral part of BHA's comprehensive medical team, including Jim Joyce, Kim Eaton and Matt (stretch) Miller.

Danny Cullip (League Two & One, Championship)
For a central defender not known for much up the other end, Danny Cullip scored late in his debut at Withdean on 18 Sept 1999 and jubilantly ran toward elevated A block to celebrate. Micky Adams had acquired him on loan from Brentford, following comeback from knee ligament damage. Within a month Danny signed a 50k deal, which was big money for cash-strapped Albion in those days. He quickly established in a homecoming side at no.27 and despite an indifferent Seagulls team term, was given player of the season award for 2000 with genuine displays. Cullip got the no.4 shirt thereafter, while other centre-halfs came and went. Danny played alongside Andy Crosby (no.6) as Brighton stormed to top of div3 in 2001 and with Simon Morgan (no.5), likewise in div2 for the subsequent successful season of 2002. After a typical fighting performance in Brighton's first stab at div1, Cullip was again voted fans favourite following unlucky relegation in 2003. During a turbulent year when Albion struggled in the Championship of '04/5, Cullip was transferred to Sheff Utd for 150k prior to Xmas. Mark McGhee said, 'every week there seems to be a new obstacle put in the club's way which affects the stadium, finances and ultimately the team that runs out on the pitch.' Danny deliberated, 'as I said to the Chairman, it wasn't all about money. At 29 it was too good an opportunity to turn down.' Apart from being a dependable and tough tackling defender, DC or Driscoll as he was known (ask Oatway) used to chip in with a goal here and there. Mostly they were headers from corners, like one that won the div3 title on a night to remember. Occasionally he let fly with boots too, as at Portsmouth, when div1 appeared harder for our team but well within his capabilities. Cullip's career peaked at Brighton with 220 apps and he played at Forest in '06/7 and again Withdean for Gillingham in '07/8. He was ploughing a centre-backs trade in non-league at Lewes when dropping out of FL. Later to become a leading light there. Danny worked for Albion in the Community and retired from playing due to injury in season '9/10.

Darren Freeman (League Two)
Brighton hosted a div3 home fixture against Exeter with a noon k-o on 3 January 2000 for one of the first new millennium matches. This gave advantage to a team that had scored 21 times in year1 at homecoming Withdean and guess what? Darren Freeman netted the nationwide initial score of 2000 and removed his no.7 stripes to expose a personal new century, numero uno message written on a T-shirt. Giant Italian striker Lorenzo Pinamonte (no.35) also notched as first foreigner, while BHA won 4-2 during a one in a thousand contest. It wasn't the first time Freeman had hit headlines for six, actally bagging a hat-trick on day1 in a Micky Adams inspired and motivated 6-0 opening to the Withdean era. Adams had got local boy Darren from Brentford and along with other imports, revamped Albion in front of 6000 each fortnight in north Brighton suburbs. Freeman completed 37 league apps, scoring 12 goals as a sort of aux centre foward. He was also booked four times before being sent off twice - all prior to middle of November! Hernia problems the following term of '00/01 curtailed Darren's record to 15 lg apps, with only 5 starts. He was forced to retire after pre-season of 2001. Many moons later he was manager at Whitehawk, when that club had a FA Vase cup run in winter of 2010. He hoped to oversee a team playing at Withdean in 2011 while new facilities were built at East Brighton.

Andy Crosby (League Two)
Allocated no.24 in the 1999 inaugural season, due to late signing from Chester, Andy Crosby eventually established an effective c-d partnership with (no.27) Danny Cullip. This season of '99/00 was innovative, not only for beginning the Withdean era but also in serialising squad numbering and 5 subs on the bench. Anyway Crosby racked up 35 league apps (Cullip 32) against strong competition for div3 places. (no.5) Darren Carr got to 19, (no.4) Keith McPherson 25, (no.6) Gary Hobson 6 and (no.16) Ross Johnson 9. An enhanced Albion fit for a promotion challenge in '00/01, saw now no.6 Crosby on 34 apps vie with (no.23) Matt Wicks 24 to be alongside (no.4) Cullip 38. (no.5) Carr made merely 2 apps before disappearing. Cullip and Crosby collected a red card apiece but also champ's medals in May 2001. Andy certainly deserved his fourth tier accolade of impressed metal, so it was something of a surprise when Simon Morgan (no.5) came straight in at c-d for a div2 back-to-back promo push. Crosby was left out in the proverbial cold and like Wicks too, done a runner before winter proper. He moved back up north and enjoyed a half decent career playing for Scunthorpe, including a rearguard season struggling in the Championship. He became assitant manager there as Scunny bounced back from L1 via play-offs. in autumn of 2010, Crozza moved back south again to So'ton, joining old Iron boss Nigel Adkins in L1 management there.
* * * * *

WITHDEAN ERA 2000 - 2002 League One (div2).
ADAMS assembled a group of players that enhanced those remaining in 2000 and went on to win dual championships, div3 in 2001 and then div2 for 2002. Peter TAYLOR who took over as boss in 2001 did very little to alter those personnel. For div3; Bobby Zamora and Paul Brooker signed permanently, also Richard Carpenter, Nathan Jones, Lee Steele (fwd), Steve Melton (mf), Matt Wicks (c-d), Michel Kuipers and Mark Cartwright (gk) initially. Senior pro Phil Stant and Mickey Thomas both later came down for the run-in. Youth team prospects Adam Virgo and Dean Hammond also got a squad no. Then next term for div2; Simon Morgan (c-d), Geoff Pitcher (mf), Dirk Lehmann (fwd) and Robbie Pethick (utility), then later Daniel Webb (fwd), Dave Lee and Junior Lewis (mf), Simon Royce and Chris Jones (gk) and also Phil Hadland and Wayne Gray (fwd). Kids from U19s Dan Harding and Dan Marney similarly received shirt numbers. Coach John Keeley was registered emg stand-by keeper.
Years 2-3 Squad 2000 - 2002
1 Kuipers (GK), 2 Watson, 3 Mayo, 4 Cullip, 5 Carr then Morgan, 6 Crosby later Lewis, 7 Freeman then Pitcher, 8 Rogers, 9 Hart, 10 Oatway, 11 Brooker, 12 Carpenter, 13/14 Steele, 14 Aspinall later Stant, 15 N Jones, 16 R Thomas then Lehmann later Gray, 17 Ramsay later Hadland, 18 Packham (GK), 19 Cartwright (GK) then Harding, 20 Melton, 21 Marney, 22 Virgo, 23 Wicks later Lee, 24 M Thomas then Wilkinson, 25 Zamora, 26 Pethick, 27 Hammond, 28 McPhee, 29 Keeley (gk coach), 30 Webb, 31 Royce (GK) later C Jones (GK).

Bobby Zamora (League Two & One, Championship)
Originally on-loan for a month from Bristol Rovers, Micky Adams brought Bobby Zamora to this club in February 2000. The lanky kid previously had a short spell at Bath and couldn't stop scoring. He notched on his debut in a Withdean draw, then got a hat-trick at Chester as Brighton turned a lacklustre season around. Dick Knight made a six figure offer for Rovers reserve in pre-season but this was rejected. Just before opening day of '00/01 campaign, Zamora joined BHA and negotiations included a hefty sell-on clause to clinch the deal. Bobby took no.25 and scored 14 goals by start of return fixtures in January 2001. He doubled that tally after his 20th birthday, before Brighton swept to div3 silverware in May. Our talisman said, 'we're all professionals - we get paid to do a job and we just go out there and do our job.' The following season '01/2 was similarly sensational. Zamora said, 'the way we're going I'd be silly to leave. We can step up another division quite easily.' Brighton had turned down a 1.2 million bid, much later allegedly upped to 2 mill from Cardiff and eventually got on with chasing consecutive promotions. Goals kept going into opponents nets and lots were coming from Bobby. He'd got to 15 in the league by New Year 2002, including a record breaking run of 10 in 10 games on the roll for all competitions. Peter Taylor replaced Adams and BZ said, 'it's a buzz for the team - you don't get to manage England without having ability and we're hoping he can carry on the good work.' At end of another fantastic season, Brighton won the div2 title and again Zamora got 28 league goals to boot. This included a fourth career hat-trick but most were singles that often tipped the balance in Albion's favour. Taylor said, 'he's not just a goal scorer, he's a hard-working forward that helps us keep the ball and helps us get it back.' Taylor had U21 coaching experience and Zamora had qualified to join those ranks. In '02/3 at higher level, Bobby was injured early in the season but came back to play a major part in the fight for div1 survival. He got 14 goals from 35 apps, not a bad ratio at all considering Albion's typical lower table negative goal difference. In July 2003 Bobby Zamora transferred to Spurs for 1.5 million. Things didn't work out there, although he continued in the Prem with W Ham. He then went to Fulham for '08/9. For us the boy done good. In Aug 2010 Bobby got an England app, coming on as sub at Wembley in a friendly. Not much later in the Prem he busted a leg and so revisited BHA for a L1 fixture at W'dean, hobbling on crutches.

Paul Brooker (League Two & One, Championship)
In the winter of 2000, Paul Brooker arrived at Brighton on a 3 month loan. He was a fast raiding winger and had been with Micky Adams previously at Fulham. Paul said, 'he seemed to have this great desire to succeed. He took over as manager when we were in the third division and straight away we got promoted.' Bobby Zamora (no.25) also joined Albion on loan just prior to no.6 Brooker. An incredible 7-1 win away at Chester when both scored, revived slipping Seagulls springtime status after languishing in 18th place. Paul continued, 'my debut was an unlucky loss at Northampton, then I played in the last 14 games of the season and we were unbeaten.' Adams spent 25k to secure him permanently for '00/01 and their fun really began after Zamora transferred for 100k prior to opening day. Given the no.11 shirt, Paul played 41 times that term including a run of 17 subs apps. He said, 'at Plymouth I scored early in the game but we didn't realise how significant it was until we found other teams around us hadn't won, so we were up. In the end we finished ahead of Chesterfield - it proved to us we were the better side and deserved the title.' A second full season for those medal winners like Michel Kuipers (no.1), Richard Carpenter (no.12), Nathan Jones (no.15), Lee Steele (no.14) and Steve Melton (no.20) was bolstered by additions Simon Morgan (no.5) from Fulham and Robbie Pethick (no.26) once of Portsmouth. But Micky Adams left for Leicester soon after the start and Peter Taylor came in for '01/2. Brooker said, 'he didn't have to tinker that much. We carried on exactly as before. He didn't bring any new players in until we signed Junior Lewis on loan near end of the season. I thought we'd do ok but didn't expect us to win the title again.' In '02/3 at div1 standard, Brooker made 37 apps at higher level and revelled in finding more space to operate. On completion of that season when Brighton were unfortunately relegated, he moved to Leicester where Micky Adams had taken them back to the Premiership. It didn't work out for Paul or Mr Adams either and both ended up back in lower leagues. Paul Brooker came on as sub against Brighton at Brentford in '06/7. Bobby Zamora was at West Ham by then, still trying to find the net. Brooker tried non-league but dropped out of playing serious footy.

Richard Carpenter (League Two & One, Championship)
Albion stalwart no.12 Richard Carpenter, came to Brighton from Cardiff as a Y2k Bosman free transfer. Adams had tried to sign him previously but Chippy stayed an extra year in Wales. At an earlier time when B'ton were on the Goldstone skids, Carpenter was winning div3 promotion at Gillingham. In years following, when Albion erstwhile played home games up at Priestfield ('97-'99), he was at Fulham with Adams and yet more success. After another promotion at Cardiff, our man from Kent coasts and shores sidestepped a possible move to now div1 Gillingham - in favour of Sussex by the sea. Peter Taylor had meanwhile pushed Gills onward and upward but would no doubt, have appreciated Chippy's work ethic there. After taking over from Adams as B'ton manager in '01/2, he found out what might have been. He said, 'if he'd had real pace he would have played at the very top level.' Blimey, steady-on Mr T. Anyway, Carpenter definitely made the grade in div1, or Championship call it what you will, to soar to seven years with Seagulls.
Carpenter scored twice against Gillingham in Champ's contests at Withdean. In September of '02/3 he let fly a long range special, when we were two down and in need of a makeover at the back. The ball cannoned of both post and keeper before entering the net at speed. On Boxing Day in '04/5 Chippy did it again from 25 yards as was his party piece, to open his account for another Championship campaign. In '05/6 he only scored one and in some respects, it was a handful of vital goals from mid-field that had previously helped Brighton forwards - in both senses! Carpenter said, 'I'd like to thank the fans for their support over the years. They have always been good to me.' He moved on in '06/7 and played for Conference South side Welling Utd. The club is not far off that A2 dual carriageway to London, from a route through Gillingham. Perhaps he just prefered an immediate return to reside nearer his roots in hills, fields and green spaces of Kent, than to shut up shop in Sussex. B'fans said good luck mate and thanks for everything. In 2010-11 he made some apps for Darren Freeman's Whitehawk.

Nathan Jones (League Two & One)
In 1999 Dick Knight wanted BHA to progress on and off the field and gave Micky Adams a futuristic 21st century brief. The brand new city of Brighton & Hove had approved land at Falmer for a community stadium and the club was hoping to submit a planning application asap. Adams added to his squad in Y2k with a number of quality signings necessary to raise the bar for a jump out of div3. In year one at Withdean, a left footed wingback Nathan Jones was sent-off playing for Southend. However Adams had seen enough to get him to sign for Brighton, along with likes of Zamora (no.25), Brooker (no.11), Carpenter (no.12) etc to replace those considered below par for a promotion challenge. Jones figured at no.15 and although a recognised left back, also played in midfield - completing 41 apps in '00/01 title winning campaign. He scored two in an early Withdean fixture with a BHA win 6-2 and the verbal Welshman said, 'the scoreline flattered Torquay.' His versatility as a sub allowed Adams 451 formation to be changed as per circumstances to keep a half decent run of results going. Having achieved a trophy and got to div2, Brighton attempted to repeat their charge up the leagues. Nathan said, 'if we all stick together, keep working hard and have a little bit of luck then we definitely do have a chance.' For most of '01/2 term, Jones was a first choice selection. Adams left in October 2001 and Peter Taylor took charge. It wasn't until the following February when Junior Lewis (no.6) was drafted-in to add extra driving force, that Jonesy and fellow midfielders Oatway (no.10) and Rogers (no.8) were often benched. A solid first eleven backed by options of bringing experienced men like Jones, stormed to a successive table topping season. In '02/3 Nathan Jones struggled to make an impact, merely getting 16 starts and 12 times as sub. With Steve Coppell attempting a miracle, he struck a fantastic shot at Forest for possibly goal of the season but otherwise didn't convert. Back in League1 Jonah was more in his element and racked up 36 league apps before Albion reached play-off stages. Nathan's self assessment prior to that Millennium Stadium special tie was, 'a Welsh wing wonder. It's great to be in my home town to play a final. A dream come true and wouldn't want to be here with any other group of lads in the world.' For a Championship campaign of '04/5 Jones found opportunities to figure in the sixteen limited. He made only 3 starts and 16 sub apps, so it came as no surprise to be released by Mark McGhee as Albion somehow survived on the last day. Nathan Jones popped up again as left back at League1 Yeovil Town, when Albion played 'em in '06/7, '07/8 and '08/9 also becoming Glovers asst mngr.
* * * * *

W'dean - FA Cup

WITHDEAN ERA... Go to the WE tab and click previous encounters for clubs shown with F in the list.
Round1 = L1 & L2, R3 = Championship seasons.
10/11 - Round1 at W'dean in Nov, we drew 0-0 against non-league Woking. At Kingfield for the replay, it was 2-2 aet, Seagulls flew on 3-0 via penalties. R2 versus FC United, again at Withdean, resulted in 1-1 stalemate. We won the replay 0-4 away. R3 versus Portsmouth, at Withy again, Seagulls flew 3-1. At end Jan we went to Watford in R4, won 0-1. Up next were Stoke away for R5. Oops, lost 3-0.
09/10 - R4, BHA visited Aston Villa in Jan, got beat 3-2. earlier in R3 at New Year, squeezed past Torquay 0-1 at Plainmoor. For R2 in late Nov entertained Rushton & Diamonds winning 3-2. In R1 early Nov, Albion went to Wycombe, drew 4-4. Back at W'dean replay we won 2-0.
08/09 - B'ton first drew 3-3 with Hartlepool at our place. Then went up to theirs and got done 2-1 in the replay.
07/08 - BHA surprisingly went out of the FA Cup in round3 to Mansfield 1-2 at Withdean. We'd beaten Torquay 0-2 away in r2. And previously Cheltenham 2-1 in r1 after a replay, 1-1 away.
06/07 - Dean Wilkins faced another 'first' in Nov and didn't want to be knocked out by it. Over four previous seasons Brighton only had to compete in the FA Cup round1 once, in '03/4 as a League1 side. Our record in this prestigious competition was not great during the Withdean era, considering we were three times playing in the Championship. Albion had not gone beyond round3 and as in the League Cup, also tripped up against lesser sides - apart from stronger ones.
R1, Northwich Victoria from Nationwide Conference made the journey to Withdean, which is slightly further than Aldershot, Woking or Crawley and certainly vastly different in terms of a pure football ground. It was by all accounts an entertaining spectacle, 8-0 victory. Next up Stafford Rangers 3-0 in r2 at home then West Ham 3-0 r3 away for a visit to London.
05/06 - Coventry came to our comprehensive sports complex and snatched victory 0-1, to be included in the draw for round4. So we'd fallen to a fellow tier two side in r3, while only a 6700 audience looked on. Brighton had suffered from what Mark McGhee called the Withdean effect, where even near 8000 sized crowds were left well short in more ways than one. Together with an equivalent to our league relegation form, we feebly went out to that one-nil reversal. Goals had been hard to come by and writing was scrawled on an inadequate suburban stadium wall, 'wot, no goal scorer?' The truth remained that there wasn't any money to buy one. And Micky Adams went back to his brand-new shiny Ricoh Arena, planned a sky blue Premiership future and felt sorry for old mates. Lewes District Council meanwhile sought a Judicial Review in the High Court and a black cloud of depression hung above Brighton & Hove on that dreary January day in our winter of discontent.
04/05 - what a difference a year makes. A day out in London, even post Xmas & New Year is still to be savoured and Brighton fans had gone to White Hart Lane in early Jan, by the odd five and a half thousand. Spurs supporters hot-footed to Tottenham and 36,000 turned up, which at 30 to 50 quid a seat is an awful lot of dosh. Championship Albion took on Prem giants following some half decent results for '04/5, keeping us safely above the drop zone. Almost in reaction to dismal home surroundings, Brighton love playing in big stadia and often produce a relative rise in standard. Spurs allowed Seagulls time and space to soar and so we saw a very useful performance, in a r3 cut and thrust cup atmosphere. With eight minutes left it showed one apiece on the board and a replay was definitely on. Then a piece of brilliance from one of several Internationals in white and navy blue, gave those metropolitan big boys a path to progress. BHA got beat 2-1 but felt far from down and out. There was hope for a positive gathering of momentum, to go push ahead and establish in FL's second tier.
03/04 - it involved a round1 trip to Lincoln, losing 1-3 in a colourful fall during November, a week after Mr McGhee had taken the manager's job and seen his charges scrape a draw at autumnal Peterborough in L1 (div2). A debacle similar to those old Goldstone FA Cup shocks prevailed as Imps ran in three for one against. An unimpressive FAC record thus continued in front of an incredulous new boss. He said, 'I think it unacceptable for any team to lose to another from a lower division'. Brighton had alarmingly lost their way when Steve Coppell resigned in October and seasonal changes were afoot. McGhee stated on recovering from a suckers knockout blow, 'I will look thoroughly at younger players in the club. If there are any good enough however young, I'll not be afraid of playing them'. So rolling dice had been thrown which we wished would subsequently reveal all the right numbers.
02/03 - the first time Brighton had reached the Championship (div1), we were drawn away in round3 at Norwich losing 1-3, three weeks after pinching three points there in the league. It had been a bonus Xmas present on Boxing Day, when Albion survived a second half battering to lead a charmed life in our area. An action replay almost followed in the cup tie with Seagulls flying into a lead just after half time, rather than before as in that league match. Suddenly the tape broke and chances ended up in our net, where as they'd done everything but that in the original festive meeting. In fact a floodlight failure had postponed a yuletide schedule from Sat 4 Jan to a Tue eve k-o contest, ten days later. Steve Coppell's philosophy assumed a level of performance would determine where the team would relatively be towards end of a very tough season. He was trying to turn relegation certainties into survivors and although making it happen, couldn't be expected to regularly go beat top ten outfits - especially in cup competitions.
01/02 - Brighton had been on promotion parade for a second successive season when Peter Taylor was our gaffer. At the halfway stage we were in third place in L1 (div2) , having slipped off top slot through a number of recent draws. FA Cup round1 had seen Shrewsbury dispatched 1-0 at Withdean. Another home tie for round2 resulted in Rushden & Diamonds going out by 2-1 and both scraps were witnessed by 5500, which was around 1000 less than for a Nationwide sponsored league fixture. Championship consolidators Preston came down from North End to Sussex by the sea for a round3 work out 0-2. They had undergone a resurgence, rising from L2 (div3) in '96 to win L1 (div2) in Y2k.
In 2001 PNE reached a play-off final and were a kick in the shirt, or rather spot from the Premiership. Those who braved chilly weather in suburban B'ton on a Tuesday night, watched a clash of a good team against class opponents. On the Saturday before, Brighton had incurred only a third season's defeat up at Wigan, which came after a two week break due to prolonged South Downs snowfields. In order to make the grade at higher level, we had to demonstrate competitiveness. Albion missed a penalty when already one-nil down and bowed out to a late second soft giveaway to Lilywhites. Seagulls had been grounded by a higher flying outfit and also taught a valuable lesson in differences between desire and rigid examination, aspiration and apparent level of reality.
00/01 - ties were at Scunthorpe lost 2-1 (r2) in December and away to Aldershot won 2-6 (r1) in November.
99/00 - a double header H&A bonus with Peterboro 1-1 (A) 3-0 (H) r1 and Plymouth 0-0 (H) & 1-2 (A) also in Nov for r2.
Post Withdean Championship seasons, there was a desperate need for Wilkins young squad to play in and thereby experience, as many knock-out rounds as possible. Round2 always beckoned like a December beacon, lighting a road to glory or later premeditated giant killing. A heart-breaking defeat at Southend in the '06 League Cup, revealed what fate can unexpectedly twist into any competition - as long as you're still left in the next draw. Eat your heart out Adams! It may have been jumping the gun back then but we really woulda liked to start each New Year included on list of clubs for round3. Somewhere filled with 30,000 plus seats would be quite a nice place to visit again for 5000 Brighton fans - like Villa, West Ham, or Spurs.

W'dean - League Cup

WITHDEAN ERA - go to WE tab for all League Cup tie histories, shown with L against opponents in list.
Concerning this Cup, BHA's run was pedestrian to say the least. But hey, it's an evening out... topical in late summer at Withdean.
'10 - we went to Northampton and lost 2-0.
'09 - it was away at Swansea of all places to go west - they did the job easy 3-0.
'08 - Brighton first beat Barnet 4-0 in R1 at home. We next drew with Man City 2-2 aet for R2 at ours. And then won the penalty shoot-out 5-3. Derby beat us 1-4 in R3 at W'dean.
'07 - BHA got ko'd in round1 at Cardiff 1-0.
'06 - initially got past Boston 1-0 at W'dean. Albion then went out in R2 at Southend 2-3 after leading by a single goal with minutes left to play.
'05 - we saw an August night humiliation in R1 away to Shrewsbury 2-3, after being ahead with ten minutes left to count down.
'04 - BHA bombed in R1 again, at home to Bristol Rovers 1-2, in a twist of fate. Although taking an early lead from a Butters nod, Albion conceded two inside half an hour to almost ludicrous defensive errors. A crowd of four thousand could then, for all the difference another hour made, have an early exit - just like our er, cup heroes.
'03 - prior to other LDV/FAC shenanigans, we reached round2. Brighton were drawn away first to Bristol Rovers, edging past them 0-1 at the Memorial Stadium. A spectacular over-head kick for the winner sent us into R2 - a memorable stat. Up at distant Middlesbrough and watched by ten thousand, Brighton went down 1-0 aet for a small taste of Premiership fare, Riverside style.
'02 - was also full of hope. BHA 'cruised' past Exeter 2-1 aet at Withdean R1, whilst in the midst of a league, long losing run. However, reality had set in when trounced by Ipswich at Portman Road for a September R2 elimination. Hammond, on only his second appearance, pinched an eighth minute lead. Virgo got to start a first game of that tumultuous div1 (Championship) campaign. By half time Town were ahead and though the score remained unchanged Albion, local kid prospects and all, knew yet more defeat at 3-1.
'01 - a kind of reverse scenario applied to R1 at home, when in L1 (div2) we hammered then Championship (div1) Wimbledon 2-1, with two Zamora vital statistics. But it fell apart next when Prem outfit Southampton, came to our place and spanked us 0-3 - in post hours of 9/11. On that day the world changed, a new order of events unfolded with each year and around this time, through football we remember.
'00 - B'ton met Millwall in the League Cup, over two legs home and away. Albion lost 1-2 at W'dean with 6000 present. Lions looked a good unit and smashed two in after mistakes in defence. Their quality of finishing was Championship standard and a real eye opener to BHA ambitions. Watson drove a free kick through an eleven man wall strung across their six yard box for a very bizarre score. B'ton worked at it but unfortunately couldn't level the tie.
Team - Cartwright, Watson, Cullip, Crosby, Mayo, Freeman (Jones), Carpenter (Rogers), Oatway (Melton), Brooker, Hart, Zamora.
For our equivalent league2 campaign of '00/1 B'ton were defeated in 3 of 4 initial fixtures, to end August in 21st, or the berth immediately above a bottom three. It was almost a spectre of those bad old years at Goldstone & Gillingham. Millwall were hoping to improve on play-off places from their last term 5th position finish.
Up at the Den, Albion showed they had got their act together at last. Over 750 die-hards pushed the SE16 London gate to er, 5200 - well, it was a work day in September. A first half wonder strike on the stroke of break-time put Lions one ahead. It was all Albion in the second 45 min, that they hoped to extend by another 30. Seagulls pulled one back from a Jones tap in, following up good work by Brooker 1-1. However, an equaliser wouldn't come but not for want of trying and lost 3-2 on aggregate.
Team - Cartwright, Watson, Cullip, Wicks, Mayo, Rogers (Brooker), Carpenter, Oatway, Jones, Hart (Thomas), Zamora.
Seagulls flew through their league campaign on the back of that performance in docklands. A small step for the fledgling chicks but a giant swoop for the big bird eight months later. They eventually joined Millwall in a Championship equivalent in 2002. Millwall were also promoted in 2001, to division1 after a new manager came in and revamped their fortunes - yes, a certain Mark McGhee.
'99 - it was div2 Gillingham, 0-2 home and 2-0 away. There is some fateful irony in that we'd been using their pitch previously, to play div3 (L2) home fixtures for those last two years. Incidentally, Peter Taylor, later to join us, got Gills promoted in 2000.

W'dean - FL Trophy

WITHDEAN ERA.... go to the WE tab and click previous encounters for clubs shown; A, D or J in listing.
At a convenient time near to the end of the last 20th century decade, Brighton came to play at Withdean as a division3 (L2) side. Millwall had seemed to be a perennial division2 (L1) outfit and so never the twain shall meet, except for knockout competitions. In December 1998 Millwall hammered Horton's 'heroes' team 5-1, at Priestfield in the Auto Windscreens Shield. A little later, our Goldstone glory ex-player went off home to Port Vale and Jeff Wood took over, tho got the sack shortly after. Then Micky Adams began to knock a reborn Albion eleven into shape for the new millennium.
'99 - Millwall arrived at W'dean to play on a night in December. That occasion was an AWS round1 tie and was one of five straight home games in an extended fortnight. No true Brighton fan could forget the last match of that horrendous sequence, when Rochdale (5) incredibly won 3-4. About 5000 turned up on one of the wettest evenings a south coast venue could provide for pre-Xmas outdoor entertainment. Brighton had also lost an FA Cup round2 replay 1-2 to Plymouth (3), on the last night of November. Initially 10 days earlier, we'd drawn 0-0 down at Home Park. There were 7400 in the west country and 5700 at W'dean for our return tie. Previously in div3 fixtures, Lincoln (1) had gotten a 2-2 draw witnessed by that same 5700 faithful on a Tuesday night, seven days beforehand. Following this, on Saturday 27 Nov watched by a near 6000 sell-out, Northampton (2) gave us a footballing lesson and left a new sports complex worthy 1-3 winners. The only victory in that crammed period was against Millwall (4) 1-0, in front of a mere 2400 paying punters. Those stay at home types missed a real AWS treat. Hart grabbed a last minute winner, his first goal for seven appearances as centre forward.
Team - Walton, Watson, Crosby, Carr, Hobson, Campbell, Rogers, Oatway, Aspinall, Hart, Ramsay.
Round2 was away at div2 Bournemouth, where 500 B'ton fans saw Seagulls k-o'd 1-0 in front of 4300 at Dean Court - or Fitness First Stadium turned 90 degrees. See '07/8 archive reports for next 5 home fixtures in a row!
'00 - the AWS competition had morphed into LDV 'vans' trophy, where Albion met more div2 London opponents by name of Brentford in round2 of Jan 2001. We'd previously got past Cardiff 2-0 (r1) at home during December 2000. Withdean had been a quagmire on New Years Day, when Southend dropped in to do a div3 double over us. B'ton's sorry loss on the opening afternoon of that season was seen by massed ranks of 3500 away fans. At this corresponding reverse fixture home debacle, 6500 popped along to see footy farce on a mud pile. The pitch was re-laid and so Brighton took their homeless LDV tie over the Kew Bridge to get it done and dusted. Bees beat Seagulls 4-2 on penalties after 2-2 aet, when 2400 got into late, then later Griffin Park. But hey, we've never had much luck at their 'compact' place up river or generally in west London.
'01 - In autumn of 2001 B'ton got to r3 under Peter Taylor. See Withdean era histories for Swansea (A) 1-2 (r1), Wycombe (H) 2-1 aet (r2) and Cambridge (A) 2-1 aet (r3).
'03 - check the LVD round3 encounter versus QPR (A) 2-1 in Dec 2003 for confirmation of progress, when BHA were again in this comp after home wins v Forest Green (H) 2-0 (r1) and Boston 3-1 (H) (r2). Brighton took 1600 to Loftus Road with 7500 there in total. Albion gave a good account of themselves but were knocked out 2-1. By some sort of footy coincidence McGhee had been appointed BHA manager a little over a month prior as L1 (div2) Brighton had just slipped up 1-0 at Bournemouth, then crashed 4-0 to Brentford on another futile night in the metropolis.
'04 - we returned to Shepherds Bush for a div2 (L1) match in Jan 2004 with 1500 supporters in a 17800 crowd. Albion battered Rangers in a second half blitz, though couldn't get a goal to alter a losing 2-1 scoreline. Talk about history repeating itself in the Withdean era - see under C shown in club index on WE tab on features page.
'06 - a couple of recent defeats in Nov, seen in the context of AWS & LDV k-o ties as above, probably didn't indicate a cause for concern in Bermondsey's JPT QF evening dust-up at 1-1. Brighton and Millwall had seen enough of one another over the last couple of seasons to have penalties of huge portfolios. Historically we gave it a good go 3-2 on pens and that helped league form as a spin-off. Refer to '06/7 encounters and reports archives - also for Boston 2-0 (H) (r1) and MK Dons 4-1 (H) (r2). At least it's not too far into Sussex on the express train home, that's a bit of a knockout too. It all finally ended in tears at Bristol City 2-0 (A) (s-f).
'07 - see Swansea 1-0 (A) (s-f), Cheltenham 4-1 (H) (q-f) and Barnet 2-1 (H) (r2) reports for '07/8 JPT ties.
'08 - In Aug Albion didn't get a bye for round1 and went up to Northampton winning 0-1, which at least was different. Then there was a r2 tie at W'dean v Orient, drawing 2-2 and thus a pen contest. Albion won 5-4. We had Swindon at home next and got past 'em 2-0 in the southern section quarter-final. It was up to Shrewsbury after for the semi. A 0-0 but went thru to final via shoot-out 5-4. Against Luton it was over H&A legs. At ours in Jan '09 we drew 0-0 - oh dear! Up at Ken Rd in Feb '09 it was 1-1. But B'ton went out on pens 4-3 - oh no!
'09 - Albion got a bye in r1 and went to Orient for r2. We got done 1-0 to a v late goal - oh well!
'10 - then LO doubled the dose 0-2 at ours in r1 the very next season of '10/11 - oh gawd!!!
* * * * *

Dick Knight

The distinguished Sir Richard Knight of Withdean, is now a legend and Honorary Life President but before May 2009 he was a very hard-working top banana. And apparently a bit of a visionary too...
Not quite exactly ten years after Doncaster came to Brighton (Hove actually) and played in that frantic very last game at the Goldstone Ground, they returned to what was then a springtime city. The venue for April 2007 was Withdean, which hosted a pretty ordinary mid-table run-in fixture in League 1. There was little to play for except pride in performance and thoughts that things can get better one day. Before too long many Brighton fans would be renewing season tickets for next season and also wondering where that last decade went. A win against Donny in the penultimate match of '96/97 had set up a final day relegation clash at Hereford and you do know the rest. The following season Albion were again in deep trouble, playing home games miles away at Gillingham. It was only a truly dreadful run of results by relegated Doncaster that saved our record of seriously avoiding Conference football for two years running. For any number of previous seasons Brighton had been a div2 (C'ship) club with aspirations, if not expectations of higher achievement. That particular image was wrecked in the nineties and misplaced in the noughties. So controversially, did Rovers really do us a big favour way back then as they slipped out of the league? They since played fixtures in 2007 at their brand spanking new Keepmoat Stadium and had nearly 8000 there when Bristol city visited during the run-in. Read into that mundane statement what you'd like to.
* * *

What fictionally might just possibly have been as Chairman:
In a twist of warp speed fate, Albion supporters read back pages of daily newspapers one hot day and recoiled in a horrific sweat. The summer of 1997 had turned into a nuclear winter wasteland, like remnants of ravaged, excavated Goldstone soil.
BHA had surprisingly been voted out of the Football League at an emergency meeting - for, 'failing to ensure the club would return to its populated catchment area.'
Mr Knight and his consortium had all but officially taken over the Board, so proved powerless at an eleventh hour to stop rot at the top. Albion had been caught between the Devils and deep blue and white sea. Or put another way, appeared washed up by workings of satanic maladministration.
Hereford were happily reinstated to div3. Brighton thus started the '97/98 season ground-sharing with Worthing until Withdean could quickly be updated to take three thousand people watching semi-pro outfits.
Now nice Mr Knight already had a vision of a brighter future and motivated his team to work at providing plans for a new home.
In a parallel universe, manager Steve Gritt had released many of the squad and elected to build a team fit to challenge for FL status once more. Due to vagaries of time and space, let alone income from bums on seats, a harsh reality took hold. Albion's struggles continued on and off the field and we were merely mid-table mediocrity by next May. Conversely we had 'carefully' consolidated in the Conference. The next campaign saw Brighton joined by Doncaster in lower league fare.
In an epic meeting at Withdean, a 1-1 draw held old adversaries together in a north-south divide, to avoid a still lesser tier of north-south regional football. Donny lead from a first minute penalty and had resisted Albion pressure for a further 89 minutes. Then former Essex Senior League player Hart, forged forward as two minutes of stoppage time drew to a close. He was clattered by a big, red hoop-shirted dirty northern bar-steward but somehow chipped the ball over this fall-guys body. From angle of lines marking extremity of the area, OGH unleashed a left foot drive that beat Rovers goalie by sheer quality of pace, power and placement. Less than two thousand people pondered if this could possibly be the start of something big for the new millennium.
In 2002 Doncaster were the first club to visit Brighton's new ground at Falmer, the 'Forever Fans United Stadium.' One hundred years of Albion history had not terminated in a retail park in Hove but was rejuvenated on a Southdowns chalk slope with apparently full sustainability. B&H City Council had voted by 11 to 1 to approve building a 12000 capacity, very low profile modern arena outside boundaries of the new National Park but providing a stepping stone to access an area of outstanding natural beauty.
Doncaster came, saw and conquered on that day but realised this magnificent structure was something they could build in facsimile in south Yorkshire - if they could just get back into div3. The Gods of Football duly deemed it to be so.
Meanwhile Brighton had developed a competitive side through a prolific youth policy and use of Withdean as a reserve and U18 venue. Over a period they had specially established two successful teams in both the Combination and Youth Alliance leagues.
On the final day of this inaugural season Brighton hosted Hereford for FL honours. Leading goalscorer Zamora smashed a left foot volley from outside the area to seemingly break deadlock after an hour. The ball hit a post just as in May '97 and rebounded into play. Super sub Brooker raced-in and hammered the loose ball into an inviting net. Deja vu or what? Promotion was assured, while Hereford...
In a sort of flash forward, Mr Knight latterly had steered the club to climb several divisions of the pyramid and wasn't stopping for anything. Planning permission was sought to increase capacity of Falmer's FFU venue, to make it attractive to visiting Championship outfits and their travelling support.
* * *

In stark reality:
Doncaster had built their brand spanking new Keepmoat Stadium in the interim, while abandoned last-century Belle Vue was now just another housing development opposite the racecourse.
The government of an ever changing world decided there was no opposition case to answer at Falmer, where local politics had bled community services dry within borders of our landlocked County Town.
They continued to tilt at escarpment windmills and refused to comply with terms and conditions of surrounding NP status. Their future seemed bleak as increasing visitor numbers swelled many a small town in Sussex.
Construction work, including the Wembley style arch began for 2010 completion. It was all part of an old fan's dream but these can and do happen in reality if you maintain belief long enough. Truth is sometimes much stranger than footy-fan pulp fiction. Ask Dick Knight if you doubt it! You couldn't make it up. He didn't and look what really happened.
Withdean Era - 3 league titles; League2 - '00/01, League1 -'01/02 & '10/11. Promotion via L1 play-offs in '03/4.
Four promotions in 12 years at Withdean. What a remarkable story.
So we still recall Doncaster, Hereford and many other now remote lower league outfits like Hartlepool & York from '97. These also include Rochdale & Darlington; clubs we played at the Goldstone when completing promotion years of 1972 & 1965. Or latterly, who remembers Burton at the Amex in Feb 2017 - on the 20th anniversary of Fans United.

Footnote: Dick Knight stepped down as supremo of Albion in the Community during the close season of 2013. He was also granted a Master of Arts by Brighton Uni for services to community projects.

Martin Perry

Our Community Stadium CEO had quite a long job on at Falmer.
Martin Perry, as Chief Executive of BHA, had responsibility for delivering Falmer. He once worked on McAlpine's special project but could not have anticipated how long a task babysitting a community stadium, from conception, through birth into infancy and beyond, would actually be.
Background.
During the nineties quite a number of football grounds were well past their sell-by date. A new generation of stadiums was coming on stream and it seemed like a good idea at the time to try and get one. Towns and cities that many years previously had attracted large crowds, fell into this prime footy wish-list category. Brighton and Huddersfield were two such likely candidates - both urgently in need of an overdue makeover. When McAlpines were building a super, shiny stadium below heights of Kilner Bank, Huddersfield were just so desperate to play there. In conjunction with the Rugby Club, local council and Football Trust, they had made a plan almost come to fruition. In the '94/5 season Town upped sticks and moved in anyway, with three sides completed. At the end of that season Huddersfield were promoted via the play-offs to what is now called the Championship. That would have been thought very unlikely, had they been forced to stay at decrepit Leeds Road - which was then sold.
Brighton had been in similar difficulties by comparison, as the final twentieth century decade dawned. Albion had fallen on hard times and more so, from not establishing as an equivalent top ten Championship club. On relegation from the second tier in 1992, BHA 'remained' in div2 because they were renumbered on formation of the Premiership. The Goldstone Ground 'safety' capacity had been significantly reduced and search for a new stadium site was always 'ongoing'. The club appeared trapped, not only by unhelpful local authorities and sanctity of Green Belt but through self-inflicted abysmal financial management. Hove Council later also turned down a scheme for warehouses on the Goldstone site, that might initially have alleviated crippling debts and huge tax burden. By 1995 power had shifted into asset strippers clutches, who sold the Goldstone without securing an alternative home in Brighton & Hove. A new stadium remained all but a dream and sinking status of this football club was further eroded to become immersed in a total nightmare. After '95, Albion would not meet Huddersfield until 2001, when again we could only stand, stare and marvel at what might have been - little knowing what was actually still to come.
Falmer Saga.
On 28 October 2005, Brightonfans.com were one of the first to announce 'Yes' - a verdict then just released by the ODPM, that upheld Falmer as the number one site for a community stadium. The case for Falmer hung in the balance after a first Public Inquiry. An apathetic anti lobby, presented as a pro-environment and conservation of ecology alliance, held sway with initial intractable Inspectors. In the second instant, they had to prove conclusively a viable alternative was forthcoming. Whereas in other localities a stadium would routinely be built at city limits, part of Brighton's problem was availability of land encompassed at the foot of surrounding South Downs. Further, an error in that paperwork granting planning permission left a loophole opponents could effectively exploit by seeking a Judicial Review.
In Sept '06 Brighton & Hove Albion may have lost three consecutive League 1 fixtures in a week but by October critically won a point of conjecture in an ongoing out-of-court battle of Falmer with Lewes District Council. A year after Prescott's verdict this undemocratic body guessed they could prolong legal processes as much as possible but were out manoeuvred by the FC, who instigated a preliminary hearing to circumvent formal High Court action. LDC realised the whistle was about to blow at the 90th minute for extra time and substituted their future protracted tactics, reverting to plan A. The government solicitor had previously offered matters be referred to Communities Minister Ruth Kelly, for inspection and consultation. This would include due consideration of all such questions LDC raised by way of challenge. Therefore a conclusive situation BHA and B&H city council actively encouraged, was available again as a method of categorically reaching an incontrovertible decision.
Border War.
The gist of Lewes DC's current argument concerned the associated AONB. In a strange twist of fate, BHAFC applied first to B&HCC for planning permission within Unitary boundaries at Village Way. Clearly of necessity, adjacent land for an immediate transport 'drop-off' area was required, alongside the Droveway but fell into LDC's non-rural patch - although viewed seemingly an act of heinous bureaucratic provocation. This parcel has subsequently been grabbed by all those organisations the sub-county authority purport to represent like CPRE, to be passed around as 'prime downland' on a sensitive chalk slope. So a perceived audacious application to tarmac right up to a natural roadside boundary, was actually equally valid because proposed National Park limits were not originally established but open to public consultations. However, common sense did not prevail and a myriad of minor groups like the Society of Sussex Downsmen, fought to register remote ploughed up 'set-aside' as an integral field of regional recreational importance. Let's face it, there would be a bloody good carpark ready for expected out of county tourists, wishing to partake of a new NP promoted 'perfect' landscape. And remember, there would anyhow be an all year right of access to popular heritage in 'unspoilt countryside', as the ever trampled South Downs Way becomes some sort of back packers or mass ramblers' super highway to Brighton - not just a little busy beauty spot on alternate autumn/winter Saturday afternoons. Slight infiltration of the AONB didn't usurp the hold LDC attempted to justify but they couldn't stay elected ad-infinitum and eventually failed. Power exerted by those National Park civil administrators would make rescinding outdated byelaws the only true vocation of small town 'representatives'.
Top Man.
Martin Perry managed to retain his sanity throughout those above events and one day, which coincided with the anniversary of Withdean opening, received some really good news. His original experience of the Galpharm project helped with realising a vision for iconic Falmer. It was said he was the best signing Dick Knight ever made and not many in Sussex would argue. When Dick became chairman of BHA, he persuaded Martin to join the club full time and take responsibility for returning exiled Albion to Brighton. MP first had to sort out a homecoming to 'temporary' Withdean, then lead the team to plan for and build Falmer. Perry continued his lifes work at the Amex, with unveiling planning applications for increased stadium capacity and off-site car parking, plus development of training grounds in Lancing. Good job he was a true fan and not just a major construction professional.
Go to the Archive for Falmer tabs, to check out what happened during those years 1999 - 2011.
In mid March 2012, Perry stepped down as CEO to BHAFC but retained executive status as Managing Director. However he stayed as top banana of the Community Stadium Company until 2014 - in order to see completion of expansion to the Amex and provision of new training facilities for Brighton's Academy at Lancing.
After holding membership as a director on the BHA board since 1997, Martin Perry stepped down to become honorary vice president in 2020. He remained as chairman of the club's equally long-servig charity arm, Albion in the Community. At end of September '20, Martin officially retired, with an Amex inscribed gold watch being thoroughly deserved. Brighton fans wish him well. He delivered a proverbial miracle to enable us to reach the promised land of sunlit uplands.
* * * * *

Gory Years Managers '93-'99

PRE WITHDEAN ERA 1993 - 1999
Albion dropped from div2 to div3 at end of '95/96 when it was known all season that the Goldstone had been sold.
So began the appointment of a series of managers leading up to the Withdean era.

At end of April and start of May '22 it was 25 years since surviving as a Football League club -
here scroll up to Dick Knight & Martin Perry and down to Goidstone managers.
go to Withdean Era, Clubs & also see Falmer Diary & File for more info.

Flashbacks... after the Goldstone Ground closure story broke.
Bill Archer promised the earth would move - to Waterhall?!?
Soon after he sold the Goldstone in that headline grabbing midsummer murder of 1995.
Then it was go to Toads Hole Valley around Xmas, before he tried to chat up McAlpines in 1996 - who were already allied with Dick Knight's consortium in process of taking over control at BHA.
He resigned as Chairman, initially kept almost half of shares in our revamped club but also left us homeless from end of April 1997.

year D Pt . Fr Ag -GD Po ^ Manager -- Chairman - Home
93/94 2 59 . 60 67 -07 14 -- Brady - - - - - Stanley - Goldstone Gnd
94/95 2 59 . 54 53 +1 16 - - Brady - - - - - Stanley - Goldstone Gnd
95/96 2 40 . 46 69 -23 23 R Brady/Case - Archer - Goldstone Gnd
96/97 3 49 . 53 70 -17 23 -- Case/Gritt - - Archer -- Goldstone Gnd
97/98 3 35 . 38 66 -28 23 -- Gritt/Horton - Knight -- Gillingham
98/99 3 55 . 49 66 -17 17 -- Horton/Wood/Adams Knight Gillingham

Liam BRADY ('93-'95) a couple of div2 terms to only finish in lower mid table. Resigned when job became untenable.
Jimmy CASE ('95-'96) lasted a year but couldn't stop a downward spiral.
Steve GRITT ('96-'98) prevented the club going into oblivion but was Knight's first sacking.
Brian HORTON ('98-'99) resigned before completing a year in the job, going off to Port Vale.
Jeff WOOD ('99) appeared to be taking Albion too close to the drop again. So Knight fired him too.
Micky ADAMS ('99-) came in soon afterwards. So a new era began...
* * *

The Gory Years above were a downwards spiral, so up and down nature of the incredible Withdean era does not exactly make it easy to compare consecutive like with like. Probably the best we can do is to grade each season appropriately as if they were for example, either big or small juicy morsels. In their own way all of these were a peach of a season - following trauma of relegation, loss of the Goldstone Ground, exile to Gillingham and threat of non-league if not worse. Perhaps our background information should show respective range of sizing, to appreciate over this last decade, fruits grown since a homecoming harvest.

year D Pt . Fr Ag +GD Po ^ Manager - Chairman - Home
99/00 3 67 . 64 46 +18 11th - Adams -- -- Knight -- Withdean
00/01 3 92 . 73 36 +37 1st P Adams -- -- Knight -- Withdean
01/02 2 90 . 66 42 +24 1st P Adams/Taylor Knight Withdean
03/04 2 77 . 64 43 +21 4th P Coppell/McGhee Knight Withdean
06/07 2 53 . 49 58 -09 18th - McGhee/Wilkins Knight Withdean
07/08 2 69 . 58 50 +08 7th -- Wilkins -- -- Knight - Withdean
08/09 2 52 . 55 70 -15 16th - Adams/Slade Knight - Withdean
09/10 2 59 . 56 60 -04 13th - Slade/Poyet - Bloom - Withdean
10/11 2 95 . 85 40 +45 1st P Poyet -- -- Bloom - Withdean

The above represent seasons in the Withdean era when differences to mid to late nineties years are apparent.
Micky ADAMS ('99-'01) created a new div3 side to kick-start the revival process at our converted north Brighton leafy suburb.
Peter TAYLOR ('01-'02) took over and a div2 promotion challenge continued somewhat seamlessly.
Mark McGHEE ('03-'06) was at the helm to steer BHA back to div1 via Millennium Stadium p-o final.
Dean WILKINS ('06-'08) took charge with Albion back in League1 (div2) after McGhee was quickly relieved of duties.
Brighton failed to reach p-os the following term and yet another manager perished.
Micky ADAMS ('08-'09) took the hot seat again for a very short second revolution. He'd failed by Feb and so...
Russell SLADE ('09) came in with BHA in the drop zone. He got us out of it and became a hero.
But he lost his job after only 8 months in charge.
Gus POYET ('09-11) arrived with S American fanfare and did some sort of samba job to boot. Gus safely steered the club away from danger and next, in his first full year as a manager, gained a third title for BHA in twelve years at Withdean. That was amazing!

Well over a decade since those 20th century dark days and talk about ups and downs. For all its restrictions, Withdean hosted a period when the club was able to mount a push for Championship football. It had been a bit like, two steps forward and one back but was infinitely acceptable to those gory years at the Goldstone and then Gillingham. Withdean thus served a purpose and we imagined what might yet be achieved, with fundamentals of a proper home and realistic finances in place.
Apparently Tony Bloom was the man to deliver such miracles. He'd got all it takes, money, ambition, calculated risk taking and above all, plenty of luck!
* * * * *

2 Goldstone Ground Managers

PRE WITHDEAN ERA
At end of April and start of May '22 it is 25 years since surviving as a League club - go to Withdean Era, Clubs & also see Falmer Diary & File.
here scroll up to Dick Knight, Martin Perry and Gory Years managers.

Barry Lloyd
Early in '07/8 season the Albion gave a job to southern old-boy and ex-manager Barry Lloyd to go forth and find some new and exciting talent. He did this for three years as Chief Scout. Lloyd was BHA reserve and youth team coach in 1986 before stepping into the bosses job after nine months. His previous managerial career included a spell at Yeovil Town, when they successfully gained a place in the new national Alliance Premier League of 1979. Lloyd got Worthing up to speed in the Isthmian League then made a fateful jump into Football League. Following initial relegation to old div3, Lloyd rebuilt a Brighton side and got Martin Hinshelwood installed as chief coach. This useful partnership saw BHA once more get to within touching distance of original div1 by 1991. Barry Lloyd then became Managing Director, while Hinshelwood more or less ran the playing side. A sometimes volatile relationship with fans deteriorated over the next two seasons as Brighton fell to third tier football, while the Premiership took off. Albion were a selling club and basically Lloyd didn't have spare money to spend because high squad wages and growing debts took a toll from limited budgets. Increasingly this football club was in a desperate financial situation and fans perceived Lloyd as integral to an emerging debacle.
A valuable asset in size and position of our Goldstone Ground, unfortunately was set against a background of claims by creditors and outstanding tax bills. By end of the 1992-3 season only sale of Brighton's goalkeeper averted a winding-up order. HM Inland Revenue offices were at Durrington and Lloyd personally delivered the face-saving cheque. In December 1993 he parted company with BHA and fans rejoiced. However he had done some good transfer business over several years and helped keep our club viable. There were also new stadium proposals, which perhaps received concerted and justified opposition but would not have left us homeless. A certain irony exists whereby those who relieved Lloyd of executive decisions quickly took BHA even further down a short Goldstone Lane to disaster.
Hinshelwood and Lloyd kicked off a programme of developing youth players and that was something which continues to date.
footnote: Barry Lloyd died in September 2024 aged 75 years.

BHA consistently turned out half decent youth teams since Withdean became our local pitch. A number of these kids came through to figure regularly in first elevens and they obviously have been coached to high technical specification. However we actually want to be a version of Championship hammers and not a mere League 1 anvil - hence another revised scouting regime. They say footballers brains are in their boots, well perhaps some of our baby-faced pro's and scholars should enrol for a psychology course at Sussex University. They'll be beating heads against a nearby red brick wall otherwise, as imported 'clever' players forever fill team-sheets on that aforementioned road to Falmer and beyond. Was it important young men of our county got heads into gear, apart from randomly racing around and using quick feet? Maybe ask Peter Taylor, he'd often deliberately thought U21 training things through.
BHA were considered a true future Championship contender, although waiting time depended on overall squad strength. There are plenty of smaller clubs that do gain entry to tier two but those similar 'Yeovils' of this country find it so much harder to stay put. Time would tell if class of '06/7 young pro's like Lynch, Cox, Robinson, Rents, Elphick, Fraser, Gatting, Sullivan, Fogden and Chamberlain could make a quantum leap themselves into FL divisions. Individually one of these would be around when we played Wolves, Ipswich or Burnley again. However it was highly unlikely they might ever represent one side collectively at any level, even if it was very close to home.

Brian Clough
Brighton fans will recall a Sept 2004 visit to the City Ground alongside the River Trent, where there were flowers. Brian Clough had died a week previously and opposite Forest's club shop was a cellophane covered sea of blooms, all sorts of football mementoes, other trivia and also shirts. One of these was of blue and white stripes, as a touching tribute to his inspiring though brief excursion to the south coast, over thirty years before. The Chairman responsible for bringing such a big name to boost lowly Albion was Mike Bamber. Sadly, he too passed on but is remembered as prime mover and instigator of BHA's glory days. Clough deserted to Leeds after nine months of only popping over from the midlands, to stay in hotels and Brighton sued. In an out-of-court settlement, a year after raising Sussex hopes to fever pitch, the Messiah admitted letting down, 'the best Chairman I ever worked for'. Bamber had given Him total freedom, carte blanche but perhaps not enough money to eventually turn Albion into a full member of the elite. There was Boardroom talk over drinks, of a new ground but the Borough Council could hardly be described as being onside or remotely supportive. Inevitably it became a dream that slipped away but not finally put to rest. Of course, there will always be football's ups and downs over time. Bamber subsequently presided over our club in division 1 and a FA Cup final. Clough simultaneously took Nottingham Forest to a peak of European success. They were then reduced to League 1 status like little old us. Hey, it's still better than those gory days, ain't it? Although for decade after long twentieth century decade, an overriding assumption prevailed - Brighton definitely had potential.
Dick Knight has kept faith with Mark McGhee after seeing modern managers of Prem calibre like Micky Adams, Peter Taylor and Steve Coppell come and go. This FC had big ambitions, probably higher than those of on-the-make seventies and Falmer is very much top of a current agenda. Yes, potential was alive and well and living temporarily at Tongdean Lane, BN1 5JD, surrounded by beautiful parks, sumptuous residences and suburban affluence. Money abounds but seemingly for BHA, paid out as rent for a cramped, converted athletics arena and utility sports complex. The answer to our twenty first century conundrum is all to do with wrong location, relocation and right location. On 24 July 1999, Nott'm Forest were first visiting team to grace the pitch at leafy Withdean. However you wanted to view it, they were a big club and it had been a very long time since we'd entertained such a salubrious outfit. A tad downhill for the Reds since them on-the-up nineties, with relegation a huge shock. Nevertheless, possessing a fan base easily equal to most Championship upper class, they did get right back in there sooner, rather than later. Albion would kill to get half their average gate, although most of our long-suffering devotees are much more accepting of lower league fare than Forest faithful, who without mercy have 'murdered' a number of stop-gap managerial victims. If somehow finding out the mortal truth, Clough would maybe have a turn or two in his grave.
* * * * *

1 Goldstone Ground Player

PRE WITHDEAN ERA
Alan Curbishley
Former Albion midfielder Alan Curbishley was once manager at West Ham, having replaced Alan Pardew when those blowing bubbles burst down at Boleyn Ground and Green Street was covered at length in tabloid brown stuff. Hammers had previously failed to somehow close out the FA Cup final of May '06, when a right old east-end knees up in Cardiff turned into a sickening second Wembley nightmare scene. It had been going from bad to worse since, whilst a new sugar daddy entered the Boardroom promising a sweet smell of success. Alf Garnet would have turned in his municipal grave, as even a hardened cynic might just believe, oi yeah, actually, money can buy everyfing.
Brighton played Charlton on 8 May 2001 in our own friendly cup final to celebrate winning the 3rd division title in our 100th year. It was also a testimonial for Malcolm Stuart and Jock Riddell, for years of 'over and above' service to Albion. Alan Curbishley had worked wonders at Charlton in their return to the Premiership that season and got them into the top ten. He had been at the helm since 1990, initially with Steve Gritt for a partnership that lasted five years. As an Albion player, Curbishley made 132 appearances before joining Charlton as coach. He had started at West Ham, coming through ranks of their Academy, so knew a bit about the place.
As a kid, Curbishley (whose name is Llewellyn) was spotted for potential and made an impact for both England schoolboys and youth teams. He was in the side for West Ham at the 1975 Youth Cup final. As a creative midfielder, he played nearly 100 times at Hammers and also got into England's U21 squad. In 1979 he went to Birmingham and enjoyed a successful spell back in division 1. A busted knee and moves to Villa and Charlton saw a slight blip but he helped Athletic up to top flite football. Barry Lloyd brought Curbishley to the Goldstone in 1987 and a go at Third Division tactics. However, he proved to be inspirational as a playmaker and Albion regained div2 status after that one season, with 84 points for 2nd place. As a manager, Curbishley twice took Charlton into the Premiership. After establishing Addicks there since 2001, he took leave of absence last term and sat back for an inevitable phone call from that fickle finger of fate. We assume having witnessed a lengthy stadium merry go round at the Valley, which included a short ground share with West Ham, Curbishley understandably passed on the unfulfilled Falmer farce, when instincts told him an old colleague was young enough to walk in his footsteps. Perhaps a lack of money shouldn't really be expected to buy everything.
In case you didn't remember, West Ham were once thrashed 6-0 at Reading. Big-time Charlies, Prem prima donnas and fragile super-egos were some of the more polite comments aimed in the direction of Hammers line-up. They'd allegedly put more effort into a wee small hours binge at Faces nightclub than that faceless performance over ninety minutes. Curbishley said, 'I'm very disappointed'. He had gone from hero to zero but was carrying a can for the big Bentley brothers who started believing their, WHU are you, 'oh wow, mega gees a week' hype. Big money and bling, arrogance and bad attitude had sent them on a downward spiral that even an eighty five million investment mighta failed to prevent crashing and burning like Icelandic lava in full flow. Meanwhile Curbishley had sixteen games to sort it. He did, so goes up there with Steve Coppell as a bloke Brighton fans admire, whatever happened while we were fleetingly in his still shell-shocked company. Btw, we'd also like given a little money just to buy something as well.
Alan Curbishley resigned from West Ham in September 2008. He said, 'the club made significant player decisions without involving me. I had no option but to leave.' He subsequently won compensation thru the courts and was available for the Albion job in 2009 but money isn't everything is it?
* * * * *

Click on a club from the list

PREMIER LEAGUE
Brighton
Arsenal
Aston Villa
Bournemouth
Brentford
Chelsea
Crystal Palace
Everton
Fulham
Ipswich
Leicester
Liverpool
Man City
Man Utd
Newcastle
Nott'm Forest
Southampton
Tottenham
West Ham
Wolves

CHAMPIONSHIP
Blackburn
Bristol City
Burnley
Cardiff
Coventry
Derby
Hull
Leeds
Luton
Middlesbrough
Millwall
Norwich
Oxford
Plymouth
Portsmouth
Preston
QPR
Sheff Utd
Sheff Wed
Stoke
Sunderland
Swansea
Watford
West Brom

LEAGUE ONE
Barnsley
Birmingham
Blackpool
Bolton
Burton
Bristol Rovers
Cambridge
Charlton
Crawley
Exeter
Huddersfield
Leyton Orient
Lincoln
Mansfield
Northampton
Peterborough
Reading
Rotherham
Shrewsbury
Stevenage
Stockport
Wigan
Wrexham
Wycombe

LEAGUE TWO
Accrington
Barrow
Bradford
Bromley
Carlisle
Cheltenham
Chesterfield
Colchester
Crewe
Doncaster
Fleetwood
Gillingham
Grimsby
Harrogate
MK Dons
Morecambe
Newport County
Notts Co
Port Vale
Salford
Swindon
Tranmere
Walsall
Wimbledon

NATIONAL LEAGUE
Aldershot
Barnet
Boston
Braintree
Dagenham & Red
Eastleigh
Forest Green
Ebbsfleet
Fylde
Gateshead
Halifax
Hartlepool
Maidenhead
Oldham
Rochdale
Solihull
Southend
Sutton Utd
Woking
York
Yeovil

National League North
Chester
Chorley
Darlington
Hereford
Scunthorpe
Southport
Spennymoor

National League South
Bath
Boreham Wood
Chelmsford
Eastbourne Boro
Kidderminster
Torquay
Maidstone
Welling

Lower Tiers
Dover
Havant
Leamington
Guiseley
FC United
Macclesfield
Nuneaton
Northwich Victoria
Rushden & Diamonds
Stafford Rangers

Bury - expelled

PREMIER LEAGUE

BRIGHTON

Albion PREM record from 11/12: 10 4 6 20 3 2 C, 15 17 15 16 9 6 11 4 @ 2/12/24
Prem: top ten '22, top six '23 . bottom six - '18 '19 '20 '21 . 2nd season syndrome: '18 - 15th, '19 - 17th . C'ship: promo - '17 . p-os - '13 '14 '16.
STATUS: former EFL lower divs club that became homeless in 1997. BHA returned from exile to the new millennium city in 1999.
Rehoused at Falmer in 2011 in the C'ship, Albion eventually gained Prem membership in 2017, having risen from League Two at start of this century.
manager: Fabian Hurzeler (2024)
previously Roberto de Zerbi (22-24) - W = 37.1% . Graham Potter (19-22) - W = 28.9% @ July '22.
owner: Tony Bloom 1.3bn . ground: The Amex 32k . nickname: Seagulls . shirt: blue & white stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no nhs covid pass (or -ve flo test result) & photo id at Amex.
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 = 25% . lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 26/12/20 = 0 fans . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans allowed in.

Seasn . Pl . W D L . . F A GD . . Pt Po = pt/gm . W% D% . L% - Prem mgr
24/25 - 13 . 6 5 2 . 22 17 5 . 23 4 = 1.72 . 46.1 38.5 15.3 - F Hurzeler
23/24 - 38 . 12 12 14 . 55 62 -07 . 48 11 = 1.26 . 31.5 31.5 36.8 - R de Zerbi @ 20/5/24
22/23 - 38 . 18 08 12 . 72 53 19 .. 62 06 = 1.63 . 47.3 21.0 31.5 - R de Zerbi & G Potter @ 28/5/23.
21/22 - 38 . 12 15 11 . 42 44 -02 . 51 09 = 1.34 . 31.5 39.4 28.9 - G Potter, record @ 22/5/22.
20/21 - 38 . 09 14 15 . 40 46 -06 . 41 16 = 1.07 . 23.6 36.8 39.4 - G Potter, record @ 23/5/21.
19/20 - 38 . 09 14 15 . 39 54 -15 . 41 15 = 1.07 . 23.6 36.8 39.4 - G Potter, Prem suspended, restarted 17/6/20, record @ 26/7/20.
18/19 - 38 . 09 09 20 . 35 60 -25 . 36 17 = 0.94 . 23.6 23.6 52.6 - C Hughton, stayed up.
17/18 - 38 . 09 13 16 . 34 54 -20 . 40 15 = 1.05 . 23.6 34.2 42.1 - C Hughton, 40pt target reached & survival!

Falmer Years: Prem from 2017 - seasons 7-13, 17/18-23/24.
P266 W78 D85 L103 . . Wins = 29.3%, Draws = 31.9%, Loss = 38.7% record @ 20/5/24 (7 seasons).
Championship: from 2011 - seasons 1-6, 11/12-16/17.
P276 W117 D91 L68 . Wins = 42.3%, Draws = 32.9%, Loss = 24.6% record @ 7/5/17 (6 seasons).

Withdean Era: from 1999-2011, seasons 1-12.
99/00-00/01 League Two . 01/02 03/04 06/07-10/11 League One . 02/03 04/05-05/06 C'ship.
C'ship: P138 W31 D41 L66 . Wins = 22.4%, Draws = 29.7%, Loss = 47.8% record @ May 2005 (3 seasons).
L1: P322 W136 D87 L99 . . . Wins = 42.2%, Draws = 27.0%, Loss = 30.7% record @ May 2011 (7 seasons).
L2: P92 W45 D24 L23 . . . . . Wins = 48.9%, Draws = 26.0%, Loss = 25.0% record @ May 2001 (2 seasons).

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 11 1 L2, 1 L1, 23 C, 4 L1, 20 24 C, 18 7 16 13 1 L1, 10 4 6 20 3 2 C, 15 17 15 16 9 6 11 P @ 20/5/24
C'ship: promo - '17, rel - '03 '06 . L1: promo - '02 '04 '11 . L2: promo - '01 . Prem: top six - '23, top ten - '22 . bottom six - '18 '19 '20 '21
past managers: Roberto de Zerbi (22-24), Graham Potter (19-22), Chris Hughton (15-19), Sami Hyppia (2014), Oscar Garcia (13-14), Gus Poyet (09-14),
Russell Slade (2009), Micky Adams (08-9), Dean Wilkins (06-8), Mark McGhee (03-6), Steve Coppell (02-3), Martin Hinshelwood (2002), Peter Taylor (01-2),
Micky Adams (1999-2001).
Prem: Albion were a level2 club at best (even flirted with relegation to non-league in late C20 years) following creation of the Premier League in 1992.
BHA first joined the elite 25 years later in 2017, after rising thru all EFL divs from 2001.
FA Cup: s-f - '19 '23 . EFL Trophy: s-f - '08 '09 . Europa Lg: R16 - '24
Life President: Dick Knight . Life Vice-President: Martin Perry . Deputy chairman & CEO: Paul Barber . Football director: David Weir, previously Dan Ashworth.

Note: now go to Stats tab for details in History & Travel, Falmer Years, Stats Plus and Withdean Era.
Also under Archive tab see Characters, Managers Stats and Falmer diary/file for much more information.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. The 20/21 season started in September, Albion finished 16th. The following term saw improvement, when achieving the top-ten ambition in 9th. This was bettered next campaign with 6th and qualify for Europe. In 23/24 BHA finished 11th.

ARSENAL

PREM record from 11/12: 3 4 4 3 2 5 / 6 5 8 8 5 2 2 2 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: runner-up - '16 '23 '24 . top four - '12 '13 '14 '15 . top six - '17 '18 '19 '22 . top ten - '20 '21.
STATUS; one of the elite big-six clubs, Arsenal have finished in the top 4 year on year this century.
But in 2017 they didn't qualify for the Champions League as usual but for the lesser Europa League competition.
MANAGER; Mikel Arteta (19-24) . owner: Stan Kroenke 6.3bn . ground: The Emirates 60k . nickname: Gunners . shirt: Red, white sleeves.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 7 4 2 . 26 14 12 . . 25 2 . 53.8 30.7 15.3 - Mikel Arteta
23/24 - 28 05 05 . 91 29 62 . . 89 2 . 73.6 . 13.1 . 13.1 - Mikel Arteta
22/23 - 26 06 06 . 88 43 45 . . 84 2 . 68.4 . 15.7 . 15.7 - Mikel Arteta
21/22 - 22 03 13 . 61 48 13 . . 69 5 . 57.8 . 07.8 . 34.2 - Mikel Arteta
20/21 - 18 07 13 . 55 39 16 . . 61 8 . 47.3 . 18.4 . 34.2 - Mikel Arteta.
19/20 - 14 14 10 . 56 48 08 . . 56 8 . 36.8 . 36.8 . 26.3 - Mikel Arteta, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 21 07 10 . 73 51 22 . . 70 5 . 55.2 . 18.4 . 26.3 - Unai Emery.
17/18 - 19 06 13 . 74 51 23 . . 63 6 . 50.0 . 15.7 . 34.2 - Arsene Wenger, retired at end of season.
16/17 - 23 06 09 . 77 44 33 . . 75 5 . 60.5 . 15.7 . 23.6 - Arsene Wenger.
Arsene Wenger was the longest serving boss by miles across all divisions.
However he wasn't universally popular with Gunners fans in terms of making the club no.1.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; 11/12 to 16/17 - last 16, 23/24 - q-f
EUROPA LEAGUE; 17/18 - q-f, 18/19 - finalists, 19/20 - last 32, 20/21 - s-f, 22/23 - lst 16.

FALMER years: from 2011 - seasons 7-14, 17/18-24/25 Prem.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (A) Aug D 1-1 . (H) Jan
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Dec L 2-0. (H) Apr L 0-3 . . BHA = 11th 48pts, A = 2nd 89pts
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Dec L 2-4. (A) May W 0-3 . BHA = 6th 62pts, A = 2nd 84pt ~ Ch Lg
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Oct D 0-0 . (A) Apr W 1-2 . . . BHA = 9th 51pts, A = 5th 69pts ~ Europa League.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (H) Dec L 1-2 . (A) May L 2-0 . . . BHA = 16th 41pt, A = 8th 61pt.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (A) Dec W 1-2 . (H) Jun W 2-1 . . BHA = 15th 41pt, A = 8th 56pt. (postponed from Mar due to Coronavirus epidemic).
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Dec D 1-1 . (A) May D 1-1 . .. BHA = 17th 36pt, A = 5th 70pt ~ Europa Lg.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Oct L 2-0 . (H) Mar W 2-1 . . .. BHA = 15th 40pt, A = 6th 63pt ~ Europa Lg.
PREM; P15 . W2 D2 L3 . F7 A11 . W3 D2 L3 . F9 A10 . Pt16 GD-5
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20 = no fans . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - no league meetings . FA Cup - go to History & Travel, previous encounters.
Withdean era: 1999 to 2011 - no meetings.

PREM from 99/00: 2 2 1 2 1 2 4 4 3 4 / 3 4 3 4 4 3 2 5 6 5 / 8 8 5 2 2 - record @ 20/5/24.
best = 1st - 2 titles '02 '04, worst = 8th - '20 '21.
title favs; 04/05 - 2nd . runners-up - '00 '01 '03 '05 '16 '23 '24 . top four - 10 times, top six - 4 times, top ten - 2 times.
past managers; Unai Emery (18-19), Arsene Wenger (1996-2018).
PL HONOURS; since 1992 and start of the Premier League, Arsenal (an inaugural member) had won the title three times in the 25 years to 2017 when BHA joined.
C20: Prem champs - 97/98 . Runners-up - 98/99.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; finalists '06 . EUROPA LEAGUE; final '19 '00 . s-f '21.
FA CUP; winners '93 '98 '02 '03 '05 '14 '15 '17 '20 . finalists '01, s-f '99 '04 '09 . EFL CUP; winners '93, finalists '07 '11 '18.

FALMER info - prior to promotion into the Prem for our initial 17/18 season, Championship Albion twice previously drew Gunners for FA Cup R4 ties,
both were played at the Amex during Jan '13 & '15.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. Gunners were 8th. The 20/21 season began from mid September and they were 8th again. The next term 21/22 they were 5th. A year later were runners up. In 23/24 Arsenal again finished second.

ASTON VILLA

PREM record from 11/12: 16 15 15 17 20 P, 13 / 4 5 C, 17 11 14 7 4 12 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: top four - '24, top ten - '23 . bottom six - '12 '13 '14 '15 '20 . rel - '16 . C'ship: promo - '19, p-os - '18.
STATUS; after much history at tier1 and spending the opening C21 decade as a PL top ten club, Villa began to decline and eventually were relegated to the Championship at end of season 15/16. They bounced back to the Prem for 19/20 . 2nd season syndrome: '20 - 17th, '21 - 11th
MANAGER; Unai Emery (2022), previously Aaron Danks (interim), Steven Gerrard (21-22), Dean Smith (18-21).
owner: Nassef Sawiri 5.3bn & Wes Edens . ground: Villa Park 42k . nickname: Villans . shirt: Claret, light blue.

Seasn . W D L . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 5 4 4 . 19 22 -03 . . 19 12 . 38.5 30.7 30.7 - U Emery
23/24 - 20 8 10 . 76 61 15 ... 68 04 . 52.6 . 21.0 . 26.3 - Unai Emery
22/23 - 18 7 13 . 51 46 05 ... 61 07 . 47.3 . 18.4 . 34.2 - Unai Emery & Steven Gerrard
21/22 - 13 6 19 . 52 54 -02 .. 45 14 . 34.2 . 15.7 . 50.0 - Steven Gerrard & Dean Smith
20/21 - 16 7 15 . 55 46 09 ... 55 11 . 42.1 . 18.4 . 39.4 - Dean Smith.
19/20 - 09 8 21 . 41 67 -26 .. 35 17 . 23.6 . 21.0 . 55.2 - Dean Smith, finish 27/7/20.
17/18 - 18/19 not Premier League.
Europa Conf: 23/24 - q-f . Champ's Lg: 24/25 - tba

FALMER years: from 2011 - seasons 9-14, 19/20-24/25 Prem . Season6, 16/17 C'ship . EFL Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (A) Dec . (H) Apr
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Sep L 6-1. (H) May W 1-0 . BHA = 11th 48pts, AV = 4th 68pts
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Nov L 1-2 . (A) May L 2-1 . BHA = 6th 62pts, AV = 7th 61pts ~ Eu Conf
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Feb L 0-2 . (A) Nov L 2-0 . . . BHA = 9th 51pts, AV = 14th 45pt.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (A) Nov W 1-2 . (H) Feb D 0-0 . . BHA = 16th 41pt, AV = 11th 55pt.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (A) Oct L 2-1 . (H) Jan D 1-1 . . .. BHA = 15th 41pt, AV = 17th 35pt.
Prem: P10 . W1 D2 L2 . F3 A5 . W1 D0 L4 . F5 A12 . Pt8 GD-9
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 26/12/20, T3 @ 27/11/20 = 0 fans allowed in stadium.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Season6.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Nov D 1-1 . (A) May D 1-1 . . BHA = 2nd 93pt promo, Villa = 13th 62pt.
C21 C'ship record; P2 . W0 D1 L0 . F1 A1 . W0 D1 L0 . F1 A1 . Pt2 GD0
Withdean era: 1999 to 2011 - no league fixtures . FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 6 8 8 16 6 10 16 11 6 6 / 6 9 16 15 15 17 20 P, 13 4 5 C / 17 11 14 7 4 record @ 20/5/24.
Prem: best = 4th, worst = 20th . top four - once, top six - 5 times, top ten - 5 times . stayed up - 7 times in bottom six, relegated - '16.
C'ship: promo - '19, p-os - '18.
Prem: ASTON VILLA were one of the 22 inaugural members of the Premier League in 1992, ending as runners up.
Only six of those original clubs played continuously in the elite for 25 years up to 2017 when BHA joined.
past managers; John Gregory (1998-2002), Graham Taylor (02-3), David O'Leary (03-6), Martin O'Neill (06-10), Alex McLeish (10-12), Paul Lambert (12-15),
Tim Sherwood (2015), Remi Garde (15-16), Eric Black (2016), Roberto di Matteo (2016), Steve Clarke (2016), Steve Bruce (16-18), Dean Smith (18-21).,
Steven Gerrard (21-22)
FA Cup; finalists - '00 '15 . EFL Cup; finalists - '10 '20, winners - '94 '96 . Eu Con - '24

Footnotes - during the three seasons at level2, Villa reached C'ship play-offs in 17/18 & 18/19 - winning promo back to the PL in the final.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. Villa were 17th. The 20/21 season began from mid September. Villa were 11th. The next term 21/22 they were 14th. A year later finished 7th. In 23/24 AV finished 4th.

BOURNEMOUTH

PREM record from 11/12: 11 2 L1, 10 1 C, 16 9 / 12 14 18 P, 6 2 C, 15 12 13 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: top ten - '17 . bottom six - '16 '23 . rel - '20 . C'ship: promo - '15 '22 . p-os - '21 . L1: runner-up - '13.
STATUS; Cherries rose from League Two in 2010 to go up thru a further two divisions then break into and survive an initial 5yr stay in the Premier League.
Second-Season Syndrome: 15/16 - 16th then 16/17 - 9th.
MANAGER; Andoni Iraola (2023)
previously Gary O'Neil (22-23), Scott Parker (21-22), Jonathan Woodgate (2021), Jason Tindall (20-21).
Eddie Howe (12-20) was in his second spell at Cherries since 2008 and the man responsible for their remarkable success as a small club.
owner: Bill Foley/Michael B Jordan . ground: Vitality Stadium, Dean Court 11k . nickname: Cherries . shirt: red & black stripes.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 5 3 5 . 20 19 01 . . 18 13 . 38.5 23.0 38.5 - A Iraola
23/24 - 13 09 16 . 54 67 -13 .. 48 12 . 34.2 23.6 42.1- Andoni Iraola
22/23 - 11 06 21 . 37 71 -34 .. 39 15 . 28.9 15.7 55.2 - Gary O'Neil & Scott Parker
20/21 - 21/22 not Premier League.
19/20 - 09 07 22 . 40 65 -25 .. 34 18 . 23.6 18.4 57.8 - Eddie Howe, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 13 06 19 . 56 70 -14 .. 45 14 . 34.2 15.7 50.0 - Eddie Howe.
17/18 - 11 11 16 . 45 61 -16 .. 44 12 . 28.9 28.9 42.1 - Eddie Howe.16/17 - 12 10 16 . 55 67 -12 . . 46 09 . 31.5 26.3 42.1 - Eddie Howe.

FALMER years; from 2011 - seasons 7-9 12-14, 17/18-19/20 22/23-24/25 Prem . Sns 3-4, 13/14-14/15 C'ship . FA Cup & EFL Cup - see FY previous encounters.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (A) Nov W 1-2. (H) Feb
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Sep W 3-1. (A) Apr L 3-0 . BHA = 11th 48pts, B'mth = 12th 48pts
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Apr W 0-2. (H) Feb W 1-0 . BHA = 6th 62pts, B'mth = 15th 39pt
20/21 - 21/22 not Premier League.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (H) Dec W 2-0 . (A) Jan L 3-1 . . . BHA = 15th 41pt, B'mth = 18th 34pt - relegated.
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Dec L 2-0 . (H) Apr L 0-5 . . . . BHA = 17th 36pt, B'mth = 14th 45pt.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Sep L 2-1 . (H) Jan D 2-2 . . .. BHA = 15th 40pt, B'mth = 12th 44pt.
PREM; P11 . W3 D1 L1 . F8 A8 . W2 D0 L4 . F6 A11 . Pt16 GD-5
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Seasons 3-4.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (A) Nov D 1-1. (H) Jan D 1-1 . . . . BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, AFCB = 10th 66pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (A) Nov L 3-2. under Chris Hughton; (H) Apr L 0-2 . BHA = 20th, 47pt, AFCB = 1st, 90pt - promoted.
C'ship; P4 . W0 D1 L1 F1 A3 . W0 D1 L1 F3 A4 . Pt2 GD-3

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 3 5 8 9 12, 01/2 03/4 06/7 07/8 10/11 League One . League Trophy - see WE previous encounters.
League One - south coast seasiders, with a slightly bleak outlook.
Cherries were pretty much a div2 (L1) club in years when Albion struggled toward their homecoming. First time they came to town during the Withdean era was Sept 2001, for BHA's centenary match. The world reeling from shock of 9/11 but Brighton intended to mark their history and go for consecutive promotions.
01/2 - under Micky Adams; (H) Sep W 2-1 MA left shortly after. under Peter Taylor; (A) Feb D 1-1 . BHA promo to div1 (C'ship). AFCB down to div3 (L2).
03/4 - under caretaker; (A) Oct L 1-0 - come back Steve Coppell. under Mark McGhee; (H) Feb W 3-0 - left 'em beached . BHA won p-os promo to div1.
Two terms down the line, Albion crashed back to third tier and McGhee went after six fixtures.
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) Sep D 2-2. (A) Jan L 1-0 . BHA = 18th 52pt.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) W 0-2. (H) W 3-2 - avenged New Year debacle of 12 months ago . BHA = 7th 69pt. AFCB relegated.
The Dorset club was looking for investment and Harry Redknapp was 'interested'. After all he lived in the town and had been a big part of their checkered 20th century history on the south coast. They went into administration & down to Lg2 with a 10pts deduction. It had all gone south.
We met again after '9/10 when Cherries got promoted as runners-up from L2 and we'd been 13th in L1.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Oct D 1-1. (A) Jan L 1-0 . BHA became title holders, while AFCB got 6th but beat in p-o semi-finals on penalties.
C21 total EFL record; P14 . W3 D3 L1 F11 A9 . W1 D2 L4 F5 A8 . Pt17 GD-1

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 16 7 21 L1, 4 L2, 9 8 17 19 21 L1, 21 / 2 L2, 6 11 2 L1, 10 1 C, 16 9 12 14 / 18 P, 6 2 C, 15 12 @ 20/5/24.
PREM: best = 9th - '17 . worst = 18th - '20 . top ten - '17 . stayed up - '16 '23 . relegated - '20.
C'ship: promo - '15 '22, p-os '21 . L1: promo - '13, rel - '02 '08 . L2 promo - '03 '10.
past managers; Mel Machin (1994-2000), Sean O'Driscoll (2000-6), Kevin Bond (06-8), Jimmy Quinn (2008), Eddie Howe (08-11), Lee Bradbury (11-12),
Paul Groves (2012), Eddie Howe (12-20), Jason Tindall (20-21), Jonathan Woodgate (2021), Scott Parker (21-22), Gary O'Neil (22-23)
Prem: Bournemouth joined the elite league (created in 1992) in 2015, having been a League One side for majority of that 25 year period to 2017 when BHA entered.
FA Cup & EFL Cup; finals - did not qualify . LEAGUE TROPHY; finalists '98.

C21 background - in 2002, Martin Hinshelwood was about to be relieved of duties by Dick Knight after eight losses on the bounce, with a 'ten and out' limit imminent. Two years on from actually achieving 100 years, by 2003 Albion were back in div2 (league 1) having further; lost those two 'new' bosses, had an abortive initiation to div1 (championship) in 02/3 and were now about to wave goodbye to Steve Coppell. Thus changing their third manager in quick succession. September is remembered as the month war broke out in 1939 but for this 21st century equivalent, 'progress in our time' was getting a tad ridiculous.
By the second coming of AFC Bournemouth to our super sports complex in Feb '04, BHA was well on the way to reach a place in div2 play-offs. A 3-0 home victory certainly floated our boat. We had by then lashed Mark McGhee to the helm and he steered a straight course to the Millennium Stadium.
Another three years had gone by and following a second sinking from the Championship and indifferent form in League 1, Brighton had repeated their September phobia and dispensed with Mr McGhee's captaincy. Bournemouth were back simultaneously to renew bizarre connexions but hopefully not to haunt our recent memories. In 08/9 they actually beat the drop to non-league, inspite of getting a 17pt deduction.
In 12/13 Cherries were promoted to the Championship, then the Prem in 14/15.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during March '20. After restart B'mouth were relegated in July. Thus the following C'ship season began from mid September. Cherries took part in p-os. Next term 21/22 they were runners up in the C'ship. A year later finished 15th. In 23/24 B'mouth finished 12th.

BRENTFORD

Prem record from 11/12: 9 3 2 L1, 5 9 10 / 9 11 3 3 C, 13 9 16 8 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: top ten - '23, bottom six - '24 . C'ship: promo - '21 . p-os - '15 '20 . L1: promo - '14 . p-os - '13.
STATUS; once a lower league club who with backing of a new stadium held a level two place and... went higher.
MANAGER; Thomas Frank (18-24) . ground: Gtec Community Stadium (Kew) 17k, previously Griffin Park 12k . nickname: Bees . shirt: red & white stripes.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . L%
24/25 - 6 2 5 . 26 23 03 . . 20 08 . 46.1 15.3 38.5 - T Frank
23/24 - 10 09 19 . 56 65 -09 .. 39 16 . 26.3 . 23.6 . 50.0 - Thomas Frank
22/23 - 15 14 09 . 58 46 12 ... 59 09 . 39.4 . 36.8 . 23.6 - Thomas Frank
21/22 - 13 07 18 . 48 56 -08 . 46 13 . 34.2 . 18.4 . 47.3 - Thomas Frank
17/18 - 20/21 not Premier League.

FALMER Years; from 2011 - Seasons 11-14, 21/22-24/25 Prem . Seasons 4-6, 14/15-16/17 Championship . FA Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (H) Dec . (A) Apr
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Dec W 2-1. (A) Apr D 0-0 . BHA = 11th 48pts, Bees = 16th 39pts
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Oct L 2-0 . (H) Apr D 3-3 . . BHA = 6th 62pts, Bees = 9th 59pt
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Dec W 2-0 . (A) Sep W 0-1 . . BHA = 9th 51pts, Bees = 13th 46pt.
17/18 - 20/21 not Premier League.
Prem: P6 . W2 D1 L0 . F7 A4 . W1 D1 L1 . F1 A2 . Pt11 GD2
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3 @ 16/12/20 = 0 fans.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Seasons 4-6
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (A) Sep L 3-2. under Chris Hughton; (H) Jan L 0-1 . . BHA = 20th 47pt, Bees = 5th 78pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Dec D 0-0. (H) Feb W 3-0 . . BHA = 3rd 89pt, Bees = 9th 65pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Sep L 0-2. (A) Feb D 3-3 . .. BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, Bees = 10th 64pt
C'ship record: P6 . W1 D0 L2 . F3 A3 . W0 D2 L1 . F5 A6 . Pt19 GD-1

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 3 5 8 11 12, 01/2 03/4 06/7 09/10 10/11 League One . League Trophy - see previous encounters.
League One - Bees all of a buzz.
Micky Adams managed at Griffin Park in old div2 but they got relegated, as Brighton also struggled at Gillingham pre-99.
We then met Brentford for the first time at north Brighton, in October 2001 when both upped to div2 (league1) level.
01/2 - under Peter Taylor; (H) L 1-2 - only home defeat. (A) Jan L 4-0. BHA = 1st promo.
In fact, the last time Micky Adams Albion had been defeated on their own 'turf' was in div3 (L2) versus Southend, on a virtual bog that New Years Day of '01.
Ironically, we'd played a switched LDV 'home' tie next, over at Griffin Park because a Withdean quagmire urgently had to be re-laid -
Bees won 'away' 4-2 on penalties!
Nearly six years after Adams had arrived to move the club forward, Albion were once again spending a single season in div2 (league1)
and on a further promotion trail.
By coincidence, regular departing B'ton managers seemed to cross over with those incoming (Adams-Taylor, Coppell-McGhee) when we next played Brentford.
03/4 - under Steve Coppell; (A) Oct L 4-0 - biennial embarrasment. Under Mark McGhee; (H) Mar W 1-0 - on the right road to Wales.
06/7 - under Mark McGhee; (H) Aug D 2-2. Under Dean Wilkins; (A) Feb L 1-0 . BHA = 18th, Bees down to L2.
They later won League2 and met us again where we'd previously survived in League1.
09/10 - under Russ Slade; (A) Aug D 0-0 - still hadn't won there. under Gus Poyet; (H) Mar W 3-0 . BHA = 13th 59pts, Bees = 9th 62pts.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Sep W 1-0. (A) Mar W 0-1 - an og . BHA = title winners, Bees = 11th in L1.
C21 total EFL record: P16 . W4 D1 L3 . F11 A7 . W1 D3 L4 . F6 A15 . Pt19 GD-5

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 17 14 3 16 17 4 3 24 L1, 14 1 L2 / 9 11 9 3 2 L1, 5 9 10 9 11 / 3 3 C, 13 9 16 @ 20/5/24
Prem: best = 9th, worst = 16th . C'ship: best = 3rd, worst = 11th . top half - 6 times, p-os '15 '20 '21 . L1: promo - '14, p-os - '02 '05 '06 '13, rel - '07 . L2: promo - '09.
past managers; Ron Noades (1998-2000), Ray Lewington (2000-1), Steve Coppell (01-2), Wally Downes (02-4), Martin Allen (04-6), Leroy Rosenior (2006),
Scott Fitzgerald (06-7), Terry Butcher (2007), Andy Scott (07-11), Nicky Forster (2011), Uwe Rosler (11-13), Mark Warburton (13-15), Marinus Dijkhuizen (2015),
Lee Carsley (2015), Dean Smith (15-18).
FA Cup - nq . EFL Cup - nq . Trophy; finalists - '01 '11, s-f - '00 '03 '12.

C21 background - being stood on that former draughty, open Ealing Road Terrace didn't 'all together now' bother a minority of stoic seated Withdeanites, who regularly travelled upto Brentford to get beat each mid-noughties away fixture. At any given time they could easily find something to grumble about - whether on their arses or not. If an intimate atmosphere in the opposite 'Wendy House' is also a forlorn memory, previous extra away allocation was provided in the Braemar Road Stand, right up in a corner.
Oh, there were a few pillars - so at least you got a chance to moan in weather-proofed surroundings.
Plenty of seasonal griping had also gone on in 2007 among Albion interested, either vocally, appearing on screens or in print. Additional sackfulls of pro-Falmer picture postcards were forwarded to Ruth Kelly, plus a few local vista 'wish you were here' views of Withdean, by way of an anti-NIMBY, right honourable ear bashing.
But by 2011 it was of course, all very different, both on and off field.
In 13/14 Bees finally got promotion to lev2 after years of trying - then immediately reaching Champ's p-os in 14/15. At end of 18/19 they were again midtable but looking forward to playing next in a brand new stadium.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Brentford took part in p-os during July reaching the final. Thus the following C'ship season began from mid September. And again Bees got to p-os and won the May '21 final to elevate into the Prem. The next term 21/22 they were 13th. A year later finished 9th. In 23/24 Brentford finished 16th.

CHELSEA

PREM record from 11/12: 6 3 3 1 10 1 / 5 3 4 4 3 12 6 3 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: title - '15 '17 . top four - '13 '14 '19 '20 '21 '22 . top six - '12 '18 '24 . top ten - '16.
STATUS; one of the 3 London giants, Chelsea have an excellent record this century as title winners.
MANAGER; Enzo Maresca (2024)
previously Mauricio Pochettino (23-24), Frank Lampard (interim), Graham Potter (22-23), Thomas Tuchel (21-22), Frank Lampard (19-21).
owner: Todd Boehly (mega$), previously Roman Abramovich 9.6bn .
ground: Stanford Bridge 40k . nickname: Blues . shirt: dark blue.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 7 4 2 . 26 14 12 . . 25 3 . 53.8 30.7 15.3 - Enzo Maresca
23/24 - 18 09 11 . 77 63 14 . . 63 06 . 47.3 . 23.6. 28.9 - Mauricio Pochettino
22/23 - 11 11 16 . 38 47 -09 .. 44 12 . 28.9 . 28.9 . 42.1 - F Lampard, G Potter & T Tuchel
21/22 - 21 11 06 . 76 33 43 . . 74 03 . 55.2 . 28.9 . 15.7 - Thomas Tuchel
20/21 - 19 10 09 . 58 36 22 . . 67 04 . 50.0 . 26.3 . 23.6 - Frank Lampard & Thomas Tuchel.
19/20 - 20 06 12 . 69 54 15 . . 66 04 . 52.6 . 15.7 . 31.5 - Frank Lampard, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 21 09 08 . 63 39 24 . . 72 03 . 55.2 . 23.6 . 21.0 - Maurizio Sarri.
17/18 - 21 07 10 . 62 38 24 . . 70 05 . 55.2 . 18.4 . 26.3 - Antonio Conte.
16/17 - 30 03 05 . 85 33 52 . . 93 01 . 78.9 . 07.8 . 13.1 - Antonio Conte.
Antonio Conte was lined up for the job in 2015 as Jose Mourinho's reign hit the skids.
He didn't disappoint either, proving to be a winner via skill & passion by a long way.
Turnover of managers in s-w of the metropolis is regular as Russian owned clockwork. Conte did two yearly cycles max as was the norm.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; 11/12 - winners, 12/13 - group stage, 13/14 - s-f, 14/15 - last 16, 15/16 - last 16, 17/18 - last 16, 19/20 - last 16,
20/21 - winners, 21/22 - q-f, 22/23 - q-f.
EUROPA LEAGUE; 12/13 - winners, 18/19 - winners.

FALMER years: from 2011 - seasons 7-14, 17/18-24/25 Prem.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (A) Sep L 4-2 . (H) Feb
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Dec L 3-2 . (H) May L 1-2 . BHA = 11th 48pts, C = 6th 63pts
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Oct W 4-1 . (A) Apr W 1-2 . BHA = 6th 62pts, Chls = 12th 44pt
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Feb D 1-1 . (A) Dec D 1-1 . .. BHA = 9th 51pts, Chls = 3rd 74pts ~ Champions League.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (H) Sep L 1-3 . (A) Apr D 0-0 . . . BHA = 16th 41pt, Chls = 4th 67pt ~ Ch Lg.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (A) Sep L 2-0 . (H) Jan D 1-1 . . . BHA = 15th 41pt, Chls = 4th 66pt ~ Champions League.
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Dec L 1-2 . (A) Apr L 3-0 . .. . BHA = 17th 36pt, Chls = 3rd 72pt ~ Champions League.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Dec L 2-0 . (H) Jan L 0-4 . .. . BHA = 15th 40pt, Chls = 5th 70pt ~ Europa Lg.
PREM; P15 . W1 D2 L4 . F9 A14 . W1 D2 L5 . F7 A16 . Pt10 GD-14
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20 = no fans . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - no meetings . Withdean era - from 1999 to 2011, no meetings.

PREM from 99/00: 5 6 6 4 2 1 1 2 2 3 / 1 2 6 3 3 1 10 1 5 3 / 4 4 3 12 6 record @ 20/5/24.
PREM: best = 1st - 5 titles '05 '06 '10 '15 '17 . worst = 12th - '23.
title favs; 05/6 - 1st, 06/7 - 2nd, 09/10 - 1st, 10/11 - 2nd, 14/15 - 1st, 15/16 - 10th . runners-up - '04 '07 '08 '11, top four - 8 times, top six - 6 times.
PL HONOURS; since the Premier League started in 1992, Chelsea (an inaugural member) won the title 5 times in the 25 years to 2017 when BHA joined.
Those years as champions being in the 21st century after the 99/00 season.
past managers; Gianluca Vialli (1998-2000), Claudio Ranieri (00-4), Jose Mourinho (04-7), Avram Grant (07-8), Luiz Felipe Scolari (08-9), Guus Hiddink (2009),
Carlo Ancelotti (09-11), Andre Villas-Boas (11-12), Roberto De Matteo (2012), Rafa Benitez (12-13), Jose Mourinho (13-15), Guus Hiddink (2016),
Antonio Conte (16-18), Maurizio Sarri (18-19), Frank Lampard (19-21), Thomas Tuchel (21-22), Graham Potter (22-23), Mauricio Pochettino (23-24)
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; winners '12 '21, finalists '08 . EUROPA LEAGUE; winners '19 '13 . CLUB WC champs '22.
FA CUP; winners '97 '00 '07 '09 '10 '12 18 . finalists '94 '02 '17 '20 '21 '22 . s-f '96 '06 '13 . EFL CUP; winners '98 '05 '07 '15 . finalists '08 '19 '22.

Notes: due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. Chelsea were 4th. The 20/21 season began from mid September. Blues again finished 4th. The next term 21/22 they were 3rd. A year later finished 12th. In 23/24 Chelsea finished 6th.

CRYSTAL PALACE

PREM record from 11/12: 17 5 C, 11 10 15 14 / 11 12 14 14 12 11 10 17 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: top ten - '15 '24 . bottom six - '16 . C'ship: promo - '13.
STATUS; Palace regained a place in the Prem in 2013, although were a bottom-half club subsequently . Second-Season Syndrome: 13/14 - 11th then 14/15 - 10th.
MANAGER; Oliver Glasner (2024)
previously Roy Hodgson (23-24), Patrick Vieira (21-23), Roy Hodgson (17-21) .
owner: Steve Parish, Joshua Harris 3.4bn, David Blitzer . ground: Selhurst Park 25k . nickname: Eagles . shirt: red & blue stripes.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 2 6 6 . 12 18 -6 . . 12 16 . 14.2 42.8 42.8 - Oliver Glasner
23/24 - 13 10 15 . 57 58 -01 . . 49 10 . 34.2 . 26.3 . 39.4 - O Glasner & R Hodgson
22/23 - 11 12 15 . 40 49 -09 . . 45 11 . 28.9 . 31.5 . 39.4 - Roy Hodgson & Patrick Vieira
21/22 - 11 15 12 . 50 46 04 .. . 48 12 . 28.9 . 39.4 . 31.5 - Patrick Vieira.
20/21 - 12 08 18 . 41 66 -25 . . 44 14 . 31.5 . 21.0 . 47.3 - Roy Hodgson.
19/20 - 11 10 17 . 31 50 -19 . . 43 14 . 28.9 . 26.3 . 44.7 - Roy Hodgson, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 14 07 17 . 51 53 -02 . . 49 12 . 36.8 . 18.4 . 44.7 - Roy Hodgson
17/18 - 11 11 16 . 45 55 -10 . . 44 11 . 28.9 . 28.9 . 42.1 - Roy Hodgson & Frank de Boer.
16/17 - 12 05 21 . 50 63 -13 . . 41 14 . 31.5 . 13.1 . 55.2 - Alan Pardew & Sam Allardyce.
Pardew & Allardyce were successively responsible for Eagles fourth season in the Premier League since 2013.
Hodgson got Eagles flying again after they were grounded in opening weeks of their 5th straight PL campaign.

FALMER years; from 2011 - seasons 7-14, 17/18-24/25 Prem . 1-2, 11/12-12/13 C'ship . FA Cup - see History&Travel, previous encounters.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (H) Dec . (A) Apr
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Dec D 1-1. (H) Feb W 4-1 . BHA = 11th 48pts, CP = 10th 49pts
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Feb D 1-1 . (H) Mar W 1-0 . BHA = 6th 62pts, CP = 11th 45pt
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Jan D 1-1 . (A) Sep D 1-1 . . . BHA = 9th 51pts, CP = 12th 48pts.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (A) Oct D 1-1 . (H) Feb L 1-2 . . . . BHA = 16th 41pt, CP = 14th 44pt.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (A) Dec D 1-1 . (H) Feb L 0-1 . . .. BHA = 15th 41pt, CP = 14th 43pt.
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Dec W 3-1 . (A) Mar W 1-2 . .. BHA = 17th 36pt, CP = 12th 49pt.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Nov D 0-0 . (A) Apr L 3-2 . . . . BHA = 15th 40pt, CP = 11th 44pt.
PREM; P14 . W3 D2 L2 . F10 A6 . W1 D5 L1 . F9 A9 . Pt19 GD4
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20 = no fans . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Seasons 1-2
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Sep L 1-3 . (A) Jan D 1-1 . .. BHA = 10th 66pt. CP = 17th 56pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Dec L 3-0 . (H) Mar W 3-0 . . BHA = 4th 75pt. CP = 5th 72pt. In p-o s-f; (A) 0-0, (H) 0-2. Palace promoted via p-o final.
C'ship; P4 . W1 D0 L1 . F4 A3 . W0 D1 L1 . F1 A4 . Pt4 GD-2

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 4 7 - 02/03 05/06 C'ship.
Championship - stand up if you visit Croydon.
The Eagles had tasted Premiership fare when Seagulls fed on scraps in div3 (L2) at Gillingham. Palace were a regular div1 (C) club as Albion climbed out of lower leagues in 2002. Brighton suffered a horrendous opening to the new season when elevating to div1 (C). Ex-Palace manager Steve Coppell came on board to bale us out, initially at Selhurst Park. He was also trying to work W'dean miracles.
02/3 - under Steve Coppell; (A) 26/10/02 L 5-0 - B'fans went v quiet. (H) 25/3/03 D 0-0 - better than a thrashing . BHA = 23rd 45pts. CP = 14th 59pts.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 18/10/05 W 0-1 - a right handful and done 'em. (H) 20/11/05 L 2-3 - fell apart at death . BHA = 24th 38pt. CP = 6th 75pt p-os.
C21 total C'ship: P8 . W1 D1 L2 . F6 A6 . W1 D1 L2 . F2 A9 . Pt8 GD-7

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 15 21 10 14 6 C, 18 P, 6 12 5 15 / 21 20 17 5 C, 11 10 15 14 11 12 / 14 14 12 11 10 record @ 20/5/24.
PREM: best = 10th - '15 '24 . worst = 18th - '05 . top ten - '15 '24 . stayed up - '16, relegated - '05 . C'ship: promo - '04 '13, p-os - '06 '08.
PREM; in 1992 Crystal Palace were one of the original 22 clubs that competed in the brand new Premier League.
They played there in 92/93, 94/95, 97/98 & 04/05 then from 13/14.
Only six of those inaugural members stayed in the top flight for all 25 years until 2017 when BHA joined.
Four of these top clubs collectively won 23 tiles during that period.
past managers; Steve Coppell (1999-2000), Alan Smith (00-1), Steve Bruce (2001), Trevor Francis (01-3), Steve Kember (2003), Iain Dowie (03-6),
Peter Taylor (06-7), Neil Warnock (07-10), Paul Hart (2010), George Burley (10-11), Dougie Freedman (11-12), Ian Holloway (12-14), Tony Pulis (2014),
Neil Warnock (2014), Alan Pardew (15-16), Sam Allardyce (16-17), Frank de Boer (2017), Roy Hodgson (17-21), Patrick Vieira (21-23), Roy Hodgson (23-24)
FA Cup; finalists - '16, s-f - '95 '22 . EFL Cup; s-f - '93 '95 '01 '12.

C21 info - Palace got to the Premiership for 04/5 but only spent a season there. They were mid table mediocrity in 06/7 but made a bid for rejoining elite in 07/8 once more via play-offs. As in 05/6 they were k-o'd again in semi-finals - shame! Btw in 1924 Eagles ended up in the Selhurst Park nest from Croydon Common but believe it or not, there was talk in 2007 of relocating to their historic site at what is now the National Sports centre. It really wasn't gonna happen now, was it?
Then big shocks for 9/10, when CP got deducted 10pts for Administration. Eagles drew at Wednesday in the final game to stay in the Championship and send Owls down to L1. They also stayed up in 10/11 by ending in 20th place.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. Palace were 14th. The 20/21 season began from mid September. Eagles were 14th again. The next term 21/22 they were 12th. A year later finished 11th. In 23/24 CP finished 10th.

EVERTON

PREM record from 11/12: 7 6 5 11 11 7 / 8 8 12 10 16 17 15 15 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: top six - '13 '14 . top ten - '12 '17 '18 '19 '21 . bottom six - '22, '23, '24.
STATUS; this century Everton have been a lesser light in the elite but were once kinda like best of the rest.
MANAGER; Sean Dyche (2023), previously Frank Lampard (22-23), Rafael Benitez (21-22), Carlo Ancelotti (19-21) .
owner: Farhad Moshiri 1.9bn . ground: Goodison 39k . nickname: Toffees . shirt: dark blue.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 2 5 6 . 10 21 -11 . . 11 15 . 15.3 38.5 46.1 - S Dyche
23/24 - 13 09 16 . 40 51 -11 . . 40 15 . 34.2 . 23.6 . 42.1 - (8pt deduction) Sean Dyche
22/23 - 08 12 18 . 34 57 -23 . . 36 17 . 21.0 . 31.5 . 47.3 - Sean Dyche & Frank Lampard
21/22 - 11 06 21 . 43 66 -23 . . 39 16 . 28.9 . 15.7 . 55.2 - Frank Lampard & Rafa Benitez.
20/21 - 17 08 13 . 47 48 -01 . . 59 10 . 44.7 . 21.0 . 34.2 - Carlo Ancelotti.
19/20 - 13 10 15 . 44 56 -12 . . 49 12 . 34.2 . 26.3 . 39.4 - Carlo Ancelotti, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 15 09 14 . 54 46 06 . .. 54 08 . 39.4 . 23.6 . 36.8 - Marco Silva.
17/18 - 13 10 15 . 44 58 -14 . . 49 08 . 34.2 . 26.3 . 39.4 - Sam Allardyce & Ronald Koeman.
16/17 - 17 10 11 . 62 44 18 . .. 61 07 . 44.7 . 26.3 . 28.9 - Ronald Koeman.
Koeman took the job after successful manager at Southampton, initially continued in that vein until sacked in Oct 17, at what is a much bigger club.
Allardyce pulled Toffees out of the sticky stuff and restored their taste for after eights.
EUROPA LEAGUE; 14/15 - last 16, 17/18 - group stage.

FALMER years: from 2011 - seasons 7-14, 17/18-24/25 Prem.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (A) Aug W 0-3 . (H) Jan
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Nov D 1-1 . (H) Feb D 1-1 . BHA = 11th 48pts, E = 15th 40pts
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Jan W 1-4 . (H) May L 1-5 . BHA = 6th 62pts, Evtn = 17th 36pt
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Aug L 0-2 . (A) Jan W 2-3 . . . BHA = 9th 51pts, Evtn = 16th 39pt.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (A) Oct L 4-2 . (H) Apr D 0-0 . . . . BHA = 16th 41pt, Evtn = 10th 59pt.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (H) Oct W 3-2 . (A) Jan L 1-0 . . .. BHA = 15th 41pt, Evtn = 12th 49pt.
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Nov L 3-1 . (H) Dec W 1-0 . . . BHA = 17th 36pt, Evtn = 8th 54pt.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Oct D 1-1 . (A) Mar L 2-0 . . . . BHA = 15th 40pt, Evtn = 8th 49pt.
PREM; P15 . W2 D3 L2 . F7 A11 . W3 D1 L4 . F14 A14 . Pt16 GD-4
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 31/12/20 = no fans . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - no meetings . Withdean era: from 1999 to 2011 - no meetings.

PREM from 99/00: 13 16 15 7 17 4 11 6 5 5 / 8 7 7 6 5 11 11 7 8 8 / 12 10 16 17 15 record @ 20/5/24.
PREM: best = 4th - '05, worst = 17th - '04 '23 . top four - '05, top six - 5 times, top ten - 8 times . bottom six '01 '02 '04 '22 '23 '24.
PREM; the Premier League began in 1992 and Everton were one of merely six original clubs to have been there for the 25 years to 2017 when BHA joined.
However they never reached a podium place.
past managers; Walter Smith (1998-2002), David Moyes (02-13), Roberto Martinez (13-16), David Unsworth (16 & 17 twice caretaker),
Ronald Koeman (16-17), Sam Allardyce (17-18), Marco Silva (18-19), Carlo Ancelotti (19-21), Rafa Benitez (21-22), Frank Lampard (22-23).
FA Cup; winners - '95, finalists - '09, s-f - '12 '16 . EFL Cup; s-f - '08 '16 . C21 EUROPE; EL finals - did not qualify.

Notes: due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. Toffees were 12th. The 20/21 season began from mid September. They were 10th. The next term 21/22 they were merely 16th. A year later finished 17th. In Nov '23 Everton were deducted 10pts due to breach of PL rules. In 23/24 Everton finished 15th.

FULHAM

PREM record from 11/12: 9 12 19 P, 17 20 6 / 3 C, 19 P, 4 C, 18 P, 1 C, 10 13 10 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: top ten - '12 '23 . rel - '14 '19 '21 . C'ship: promo - '18 '20 '22 . p-os - '17 . Second Season Syndrome; 01/2 -13th then 02/3 - 14th.
STATUS; a regular middle order Prem outfit this century. But law of averages finally let them down in 2014 after well over a decade continually among the elite.
MANAGER; Marco Silva (21-24), previously Scott Parker (19-21) .
owner: Shahid Khan 5.9bn . ground: Craven Cottage 19k . nickname: Cottagers . shirt: white.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 5 4 4 . 18 18 0 . . 19 10 . 38.5 30.7 30.7 - M Silva
23/24 - 13 08 17 . 55 61 -06 . 47 13 . 34.2 . 21.0. 44.7 - Marco Silva
22/23 - 15 07 16 . 55 53 02 .. 52 10 . 39.4 . 18.4 . 42.1 - Marco Silva
21/22 - not Premier League.
20/21 - 05 13 20 . 27 53 -26 . 28 18 . 13.1 . 34.2 . 52.6 - Scott Parker
19/20 - not Premier League.
18/19 - 07 05 26 . 34 81 -47 . 26 19 . 18.4 . 13.1 . 68.4 - C Ranieri & S Parker
Slavisa Jokanovic did a great job restoring the Thames-side outfit to the Premiership in two full seasons.
17/18 - not Premier League.

FALMER years; from 2011 - seasons 8 10 12-14, 18/19 20/21 22/23-24/25 Prem . Seasons 4-6, 14/15-16/17 C'ship.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (A) Dec L 3-1 . (H) Mar
23/24 - Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Oct D 1-1 . (A) Mar L 3-0 . . . . . BHA = 11th 48pts, F = 13th 47pts
22/23 - Graham Potter: (A) Aug L 2-1 . Roberto de Zerbi (H) Feb L 0-1 . BHA = 6th 62pts, Fulm 10th 52pt
21/22 - not Premier League.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (A) Dec D 0-0 . (H) Jan D 0-0 . . BHA = 16th 41pt, Fulm = 18th 28pt rel.
19/20 - not Premier League.
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Sep D 2-2 . (A) Jan L 4-2 . .. BHA = 17th 36pt, Fulm = 19th 26pt rel.
17/18 - not Premier League.
Prem; P9 . W0 D3 L1 . F3 A4 . W0 D1 L4 . F4 A12 . GD-9 Pt4
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20 = no fans . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Seasons 4-6.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (H) Nov L 1-2 . caretaker Nathan Jones; (A) Dec W 0-2 . . BHA = 20th 47pt, FFC = 17th 52pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Aug W 1-2 . (H) Apr W 5-0 . . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, FFC = 20th 51pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Nov W 2-1 . (A) Jan W 1-2 . . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, FFC = 6th 80pt p-os
C'ship; P6 W2 D0 L1 . F8 A3 . W3 D0 L0 . F6 A2 . Pt15 GD+9
Withdean era: from 1999 to 2011 - no meetings.

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 9 1 C, 13 14 9 13 12 16 17 7 / 12 8 9 12 19 P, 17 20 6 3 C, 19 P / 4 C, 18 P, 1 C, 10 13 record @ 20/5/24.
Prem; best = 7th - '09 . worst = 19th - '19 . rel - '19 '21 . top ten - '04 '09 '11 '12 '23 . stayed up - '07 '08 . C'ship: promo - '01 '18 '20 '22, p-os - '17.
past managers; Paul Bracewell (1999-2000), Jean Tigana (00-3), Chris Coleman (03-7), Lawrie Sanchez (2007), Roy Hodgson (07-10), Mark Hughes (10-11),
Martin Jol (11-14), Felix Magath (2014), Kit Symons (14-15), Slavisa Jokanovic (16-18), Claudio Ranieri (18-19), Scott Parker (19-21)
PREM: Fulham initially joined the elite league (started in 1992) for the 01/02 season.
FA Cup; s-f - '02, q-f - '04 '09 '10 . EFL Cup; q-f - '01 '05.

C21 Notes: Fulham originally spent 13 straight years in the Premiership during the early 21st century. They cracked the top-ten just 4 times but were always up against it to hold a regular place there when times got much tougher. 13/14 season was the toughest to date - relegation back to lev2. In 16/17 & 17/18 Cottagers reached Championship play-offs, elevating once more to the elite at the 2018 p-o final. Unfortunately they went straight back down.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during mid March '20. After June restart, Fulham took part in p-os during July - reaching and winning the final in early August. Thus the following Prem season began from mid September. Cottagers were relegated with 3 games to go. Next term 21/22 they were champions of the C'ship. A year later finished 10th. In 23/24 Fulham finished 13th.

IPSWICH

Prem record from 11/12: 15 14 9 6 7 16 / 12 24 C 10 9 11 2 L1, 2 C, 19 @ 2/12/24.
recent promo - '24 C, '23 L1 . p-os - '15 C . rel - '19 C.
STATUS; a once perenniel Championship club that never seemed able to turn ambition into reality. Then... one day...
MANAGER; Keiran McKenna (21-24), previously Paul Cook (2021), Paul Lambert (18-21) .
ground: Portman Road 30k . nickname: Tractor Boys . shirt: blue.

Seasn . W D L . . . . F A GD . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 1 6 7 . 13 25 -12 . . 9 19 . 07.1 42.8 50.0- Kieran McKenna
17/18 - 22/23 not Premier League

FALMER years; from 2011. Season14, 24/25 Prem . Seasons 1-6, 11/12-16/17 C'ship.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (H) Sep D 0-0 . (A) Jan
17/18 - 22/23 not Premier League
P1 . W0 D1 L0 . F0 A0 . W0 D0 L0 . F0 A0 . Pt1 GD0
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans . Tier 4 @ 26/12/20 = no fans.

Championship from 2011 to 2017: seasons 1-6
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Oct L 3-1. (H) Feb W 3-0 . . . .. BHA = 10th 66pt. IT = 15th 61pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Oct D 1-1. (A) Jan W 0-3 . . . .. BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. IT = 14th 60pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (A) Sep L 2-0. (H) Mar L 0-2 . .. BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, IT = 9th 68pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (A) Sep L 2-0. Under Chris Hughton; (H) Jan W 3-2 . BHA = 20th 47pt, IT = 6th 78pt (p-os)
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Aug W 2-3. (H) Dec L 0-1. BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, IT = 7th 69pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Sep D 0-0. (H) Feb D 1-1 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, IT = 16th 55pt
C'ship record: P12 . W2 D2 L2 . F8 A7 . W2 D1 L3 . F7 A9 . Pt22 GD-1

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 4 6-7 . 02/3 04/5-05/6 C'ship . EFL Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
Championship - out on a second tier limb.
ipswich Town had been regular turn of the century div1 top5 and also once in the Prem. Brighton meanwhile endured depths of div3 at Gillingham before 1999, to then climb from Withdean constrictions. We then had three attempts to consolidate in the Championship during the noughties. Albion were always up against it and initially got Steve Coppell to help on a pre-Xmas night at Tongdean Lane.
02/3 - under Steve Coppell; (H) 10/12/02 D 1-1 - every point counted. (A) 22/3/03 D 2-2 - still in with a shout . BHA = 23rd rel, IT = 7th missed p-os.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 27/11/04 L 1-0 - upset in Town. (H) 8/5/05 D 1-1 - scenes of pure relief . BHA = 20th 51pts beat the drop. IT = 3rd 85pts p-os.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 29/10/05 D 1-1 - lapsed before interval. (A) 15/4/06 W 1-2 - won taking it to 'em . BHA = 24th rel, IT = 15th 56pt.
C21 total C'ship record: P18 . W2 D5 L2 . F11 A10 . W3 D2 L4 . F11 A13 . Pt22 GD-1

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 3 C, 5 18 P, 7 5 3 15 14 8 9 / 15 13 15 14 9 6 7 16 12 24 C / 10 9 11 2 L1, 2 C @ 4/5/24
Prem: top six - '01, rel - '02 . C'ship: best = 1st '24, 3rd '00 '05, worst = 24th '19 . promo - '00 '24, p-os - '04 '05 '15, rel - '19. L1: promo - '23
IPSWICH TOWN were one of the original 22 clubs in the new Premier League for 1992. They stayed there until 94/95.
past managers; George Burley (1994-2002), Joe Royle (02-6), Jim Magilton (06-9), Roy Keane (09-11), Paul Jewell (11-12), Mick McCarthy (12-18),
Paul Hurst (2018), Paul Lambert (18-21), Paul Cook (2021)
FA Cup; q-f - '93 . EFL Cup; s-f - '01 '11 . UEFA Cup; rnds - '01 '02

C21 Info - in 06/7 Town were mid-table mediocrity and seemingly resigned to tier two footy for a while. Perhaps they had been playing above true level for a while.
Then with a change of manager things picked up. In 07/8 Ipswich were just outside play-offs and for 08/9 top-ten, so were the good times back? Well for 09/10 under Roy not so Keane, Town were very mid table. In 10/11 they got to be 13th in the Championship.
Thereafter making p-os only once (14/15) in years to 17/18. At end of 18/19 Town were relegated to L1.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March and ended early due to the Covid-19 crisis. Therefore the following L1 season started in September. Town again finished in the top ten. The following term 21/22 they were again in mid table. Then 2nd and auto promo. In 23/24 Ipswich were 2nd in the C'ship and promo to the Prem.

LEICESTER

PREM record from 11/12: 9 6 1 C, 14 1 12 / 9 9 5 5 8 18 P, 1 C, 16 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: title - '16 . top six - '20 '21 . top ten - '18 '19 '22 . rel - '23 . C'ship: title - '14 '24 . p-os - '13.
STATUS; this century the club fell from grace into League One, elevating on the bounce in 2009. On returning to the elite they sensationally won the PL title in 2016.
Second-Season Syndrome; 14/15 - 14th then 15/16 - 1st!
MANAGER; Ruud van Nistelrooy (2024)
previously Steve Cooper (2024), Enzo Maresca (23-24), Dean Smith (interim), Brendan Rodgers (19-23).
owner: Srivaddhanaprabha family 2.9bn . ground: King Power 32k . nickname: Foxes . shirt: dark blue.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 26/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20 = No fans allowed in stadium.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 3 4 7 . 19 28 -09 . . 13 15 . 21.4 28.5 50.0 - R van Nistlerooy & Steve Cooper
23/24 - not Premier League
22/23 - 09 07 22 . 51 68 -17 . 34 18 . 23.6 . 18.4 . 57.8 - Dean Smith & Brendan Rodgers
21/22 - 14 10 14 . 62 59 03 .. 52 08 . 36.8 . 26.3 . 36.8 - Brendan Rodgers
20/21 - 20 06 12 . 68 50 18 .. 66 05 . 52.6 . 15.7 . 31.5 - Brendan Rodgers.
19/20 - 18 08 12 . 67 41 26 .. 62 05 . 47.3 . 21.0 . 31.5 - Brendan Rodgers, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 15 07 16 . 51 48 03 .. 52 09 . 39.4 . 18.4 . 42.1 - Claude Puel & Brendan Rodgers.
17/18 - 12 11 15 . 56 60 -04 . 47 09 . 31.5 . 28.9 . 39.4 - Puel & Shakespeare.
16/17 - 12 08 18 . 48 63 -15 . 44 12 . 31.5 . 21.0 . 47.3 - Craig Shakespeare & Claudio Ranieri.
Shakespeare latterly turned around a failing campaign by the defending champions under title-winner Claudio Ranieri.
Puel restored oder to a side failing to fulfill ongoing PL potential as top half at least.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; 16/17 - q-f . EUROPA LEAGUE: 20/21 - last 32, 21/22 - Conf s-f.

FALMER years; from 2011 - seasons 7-12 14, 17/18-22/23 24/25 Prem . Seasons 1-3, 11/12-13/14 C'ship.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (A) Dec . (H) Apr . BHA = th pts, LC = th pts
23/24 - not Premier League
22/23 - Graham Potter: (H) Sep W 5-2. Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Jan D 2-2 . BHA = 6th 62pts, LC = 18th 34pt ~ rel
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Sep W 2-1 . (A) Jan D 1-1 . BHA = 9th 51pts, LC = 8th 52pts
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (A) Dec L 3-0 . (H) Mar L 1-2 . . BHA = 16th 41pt, LC = 5th 66pt ~ Europa Lg.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (H) Nov L 0-2 . (A) Jun D 0-0 . . BHA = 15th 41pt, LC = 5th 62pt. (postponed from Mar due to Coronavirus contagion).
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Nov D 1-1 . (A) Feb L 2-1 . . BHA = 17th 36pt, LC = 9th 52pt.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Aug L 2-0 . (H) Mar L 0-2 .. . BHA = 15th 40pt, LC = 9th 47pt.
PREM; P12 . W2 D1 L3 . F9 A10 . W0 D3 L3 . F4 A10 . Pt10 GD-7

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Seasons 1-3.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Sep L 1-0. (H) Feb W 1-0 . . . . BHA = 10th 66pt. LC = 9th 66pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Oct L 1-0. (H) Apr D 1-1 . . . . .. BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. LC = 6th 68pt p-os.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (H) Dec W 3-1. (A) Apr W 1-4 . BHA = 6th 72pt, LC = 1st 102pt - promoted.
C'ship; P6 . W2 D1 L0 . F5 A2 . W1 D0 L2 . F4 A3 . Pt10 GD+4

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 4 6-7 10, 02/3 04/5-05/6 C'ship, 08/9 L1.
Championship & League One - Foxes on the run.
City were a Prem club during the rise of BHA from ground-share at Priestfield to Withdean era temporary home. We first met in 2002 when ex-BHA boss Micky Adams took LC up from div1 (C'ship). Fixtures again took place at Championship level from 2004 - 2006 when Mark McGhee was Albion boss. His aim was for consolidation and the Walkers Stadium offered a challenge like many other pukka grounds at this level.
02/3 - under Steve Coppell; (H) L 0-1. (A) L 2-0 . BHA = 23rd rel, LC = 2nd promo.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (A)30/8/04 W 0-1 - we still led at 90min. (H) 9/4/05 D 1-1 - less likely to lead . BHA = 20th 51pts, LC = 15th 57pts.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 27/9/05 D 0-0 - no crucial first goal. (H) 11/2/06 L 1-2 - conceded early, all over . BHA = 24th 38pt rel, LC = 16th 54pt.
07/8 - Leicester were relegated from the Championship to join BHA already playing in League One.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (H) Oct W 3-2 - late og winner, MA pleased. (A) Jan D 0-0 . BHA = 16th 52pt under Russ Slade. LC = promo to C'ship as champs.
C21 total EFL record: P14 . W3 D2 L2 . F10 A8 . W2 D2 L3 . F5 A5 . Pt19 GD+2

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 8 13 20 P, 2 C, 18 P, 15 16 19 22 C, 1 L1 / 5 10 9 6 1 C, 14 1 12 9 9 / 5 5 8 18 P, 1 C record @ 4/5/24.
PREM: best = 1st - '16 . worst = 20th - '02 . top six - '20 '21, top ten - '00 '18 '19 '22 . relegated - '02, '04, '23 .
C'ship: promo - '03 '14 '24, p-os - '10 '13, rel - '08 . L1: promo - '09
PL HONOURS; since the Premier League began in 1992 merely six clubs have won the title and six have also been ever present in the 25 years to 2017 when BHA joined. LC initially competed in '94, again in '96 thru '02.
Of the six winners, Leicester City were the one & only team not to have been an inaugural member of the Prem.
past managers; Martin O'Neill (1995-2000), Peter Taylor (00-1), Dave Bassett (01-2), Micky Adams (02-4), Craig Levein (04-6), Robert Kelly (06-7),
Martin Allen (2007), Gary Megson (2007), Ian Holloway (07-8), Nigel Pearson (08-10), Paulo Sousa (2010), Sven Goran Eriksson (10-11),
Nigel Pearson (11-15), Claudio Ranieri (15-17), Craig Shakespeare (2017), Claude Puel (17-19), Brendan Rodgers (19-23), Dean Smith (2023), Enzo Maresca (23-24), Steve Cooper (2024)
C21 EUROPE; CL finals - '17 q-f . EUL finals - '21 nq, '22 conf s-f.
FA Cup; winners - '21, q-f - '01 '05 '12 '18 '20 . EFL Cup; winners - '97 '00 . finalists - '99, s-f - '20, q-f - '18 '19.

C21 info - Micky Adams parted company with the combative little midfielder Dennis Wise at Leicester, on occasion of a pre-season scrap among his squad. Adams later installed him again when manager at Coventry and don't bother asking Brighton fans about being wise after those proverbial Championship events at brand new Ricoh Arena either. Micky Adams remarked, after hiring and during Wise's Sky Blue period, 'I can understand lesser managers than myself would not have done it. But I don't have to worry about my job because I'm a better manager'. Well, that old football world certainly turned some and while one bloke ended up in lowly Essex as assistant, the other got lucky and some. Nevermind, Adams again proved his class by getting positive results for BHA against Leicester in League1. Pity it all flattered to deceive.
For 9/10, Foxes made Championship p-o's in a season's cunning plan on the hunt. In 10/11 they finished 10th at level two. Having later reached the Prem, City were unexpected champs in 15/16.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. City were 5th. The 20/21 season began from mid September. Foxes finished 5th again. The next term 21/22 they were 8th. A year later finished 18th and rel. In 23/24 Leicester were 1st in the C'ship and promo straight back to the Prem.

LIVERPOOL

PREM record from 11/12: 8 7 2 6 8 4 / 4 2 1 3 2 5 3 1 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: title - '20 . runner-up - '14 '19 '22 . podium '21 '24 . top four - '17 '18 . top six '15 '23 . top ten - '12 '13 '16.
STATUS; one of the big 4 northwest clubs, Liverpool had not been strong enough to win the title this century... until 2020.
MANAGER; Arne Slott (2024), previously Jurgen Klopp (15-24) .
owner: John W Henry 2.3bn & Tom Werner . ground: Anfield 53k . nickname: Reds . shirt: red.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 11 1 1 . 26 8 18 . . 34 1 . 84.6 07.6 07.6 - Arne Slott
23/24 - 24 10 04 . 86 41 45 . . 82 3 . 63.1 . 26.3 . 10.5 - Jurgen Klopp
22/23 - 19 10 09 . 75 47 28 . . 67 5 . 50.0 . 26.3 . 23.6 - Jurgen Klopp
21/22 - 28 08 02 . 94 26 68 . . 92 2 . 73.6 . 21.0 . 05.2 - Jurgen Klopp
20/21 . 20 09 09 . 68 42 26 . . 69 3 . 52.6 . 23.6 . 23.6 - Jurgen Klopp.
19/20 . 32 03 03 . 85 33 52 . . 99 1 . 84.2 . 07.8 . 07.8 - Jurgen Klopp, Champions, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 30 07 01 . 89 22 67 . . 97 2 . 78.9 . 18.4 . 02.6 - Jurgen Klopp.
17/18 - 21 12 05 . 84 38 46 . . 75 4 . 55.2 . 31.5 . 13.1 - Jurgen Klopp.
16/17 - 22 10 06 . 78 42 36 . . 76 4 . 57.8 . 26.3 . 15.7 - Jurgen Klopp.
Jurgen Klopp took over from Brendan Rodgers who was fairly successful in 3 seasons previously. But Klopp's brief was to actually head the division.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; 14/15 - group stage, 17/18 - finalists, 18/19 - winners, 19/20 - last 16, 20/21 - q-f, 21/22 - finalists, 22/23 - lst 16.
EUROPA LEAGUE; 12/13 - last 32, 14/15 - last 32, 15/16 - runners up, 23/24 - q-f.

FALMER years: from 2011 - seasons 7-14, 17/18-24/25 Prem.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (A) Nov L 2-1 . (H) May
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Oct 2-2 . (A) Mar L 2-1 . . . BHA = 11th 48pts, Liv = 3rd 82pts
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Oct D 3-3 . (H) Jan W 3-0 . BHA = 6th 62pts, Liv = 5th 67pt ~ Eu Lg
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Mar L 0-2 . (A) Oct D 2-2 . . . . BHA = 9th 51pts, Liv = 2nd 92pt ~ Champions League.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (H) Nov D 1-1 . (A) Feb W 0-1. . . BHA = 16th 41pt, Liv = 3rd 69pt ~ Champions Lg.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (A) Nov L 2-1 . (H) Jul L 1-3 . .. . . BHA = 15th 41pt, Liv = 1st 99pt champs. (postponed from Apr by Covid-19 pandemic).
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Aug L 1-0 . (H) Jan L 0-1 . . . . BHA = 17th 36pt, Liv = 2nd 97pt - runners up.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Dec L 1-5 . (A) May L 4-0. . . . BHA = 15th 40pt, Liv = 4th 75pt ~ Champions Lg.
PREM; P15 . W1 D2 L4 . F8 A14 . W1 D2 L5 . F9 A16 . Pt10 GD-13
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 31/12/20 = no fans . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - no league meetings . FA Cup & EFL Cup - see History & Travel previous encounters.
Withdean era: 1999 to 2011 - no meetings.

Prem from 99/00: 4 3 2 5 4 5 3 3 4 2 / 7 6 8 7 2 6 8 4 4 2 / 1 3 2 5 3 record @ 20/5/24.
best = 1st - '20, 2nd - '02 '09 '14 '19 '22 . worst = 8th - '12 '16 . title - once . runners-up - 5 times, top four - 10 times, top six - 5 times, top ten - 4 times.
PL HONOURS; from start of the Premier League in 1992, in those 25 years to 2017 when BHA joined, Reds (a founding member) although runners-up,
had not been able to win a single title. They changed that outstanding stat when becoming champions in 2020.
past managers; Gerard Houllier (1998-2004), Rafael Benitez (04-10), Roy Hodgson (10-11), Kenny Dalglish (11-12), Brendan Rodgers (12-15),
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; winners - '19 '05, finalists - '07 '18 '22 . EUROPA LEAGUE; winners - '01, finalists - '16.
FA CUP; winners - '01 '06 '22, finalists - '96 '12, s-f - '15 . LEAGUE CUP; winners - '95 '01 '03 '12 '22, finalists - '05 '16.

FALMER info - during the first season at the Amex (11/12), Albion met the Reds in the League Cup there and also, later away at Anfield in the FA Cup.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during mid March '20. After restart, during June runaway Reds secured their first title, well before Prem completion in late July. Thus the following season began from mid September when finishing 3rd. The next term 21/22 they were 2nd only 1pt off top. A year later finished 5th. In 23/24 Liverpool finished 3rd.

MAN CITY

CITY Prem records from 11/12: 1 2 1 2 4 3 / 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 2 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: titles - '12 '14 '18 '19 '21 '22 '23 '24 . runner-up - '13 '15 '20 . podium '17 . top four - '16.
STATUS; big money infusion for the second decade of this century, resulted in City becoming a force to rival & surpass Man United, Liverpool & Everton in the northwest. They are now also a top club in Europe.
MANAGER; Pep Guardiola (16-24) . owner: Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan 15bn . ground: Etihad 55k . nickname: Citizens . shirt: light blue.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 7 2 4 . 22 19 03 . . 23 2 . 53.8 15.3 23.0 - Pep Guardiola
23/24 - 28 07 03 . 96 34 62 . . 91 1 . 73.6 . 18.4 . 07.8 - Pep Guardiola
22/23 - 28 05 05 . 94 33 61 . . 89 1 . 73.6 . 13.1 . 13.1 - Pep Guardiola
21/22 - 29 06 03 . 99 26 73 . . 93 1 . 76.3 . 15.7 . 07.8 - Pep Guardiola
20/21 - 27 05 06 . 83 32 51 . . 86 1 . 71.0 . 13.1 . 15.7 - Pep Guardiola.
19/20 - 26 03 9 . 102 35 67 . . 81 2 . 68.4 . 07.8 . 23.6 - Pep Guardiola, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 32 02 04 . 95 23 72 . . 98 1 . 84.2 . 05.2 . 10.5 - Pep Guardiola.
17/18 - 32 04 2 . 106 27 78 . 100 1 . 84.2 . 10.5 . 05.2 - Pep Guardiola.
16/17 - 23 09 06 . 80 39 41 . . 78 3 . 60.5 . 23.6 . 15.7 - Pep Guardiola.
Pep Guardiola was lined up for the job in Manuel Pelligrini's last season of three largely successful campaigns. PG was tipped as
the best coach after three La Liga titles, two Champions Leagues and numerous Cups in Europe & further afield.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; 11/12 - group stage, 12/13 - gp stg, 13/14 - last 16, 14/15 - lst 16, 15/16 - s-f, 16/17 - lst 16,
17/18 - q-f, 18/19 - q-f, 19/20 - q-f, 20/21 - final, 21/22 - s-f, 22/23 - winners, 23/24 - q-f . EUROPA LEAGUE; 11/12 - last 16.

FALMER Years: from 2011 - seasons 7-14, 17/18-24/25 Prem . FA Cup - see History & Travel.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (H) Nov W 2-1 . (A) Mar
23/24 - under Roberto dr Zerbi: (A) Oct L 2-1 . (H) Apr L 0-4 . . BHA = 11th 48pts, MC = 1st 91pts
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Oct L 3-1 . (H) May D 1-1 . BHA = 6th 62pts, MC = 1st 89pt ~ Ch Lg
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Oct L 1-4 . (A) Mar L 3-0 . . . BHA = 9th 51pts, MC = 1st 93pt ~ Champions League.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (A) Jan L 1-0 . (H) May W 3-2 . . BHA = 16th 41pt, MC = 1st 86pt ~ Champions Lg.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (A) Aug L 4-0. (H) Jul L 0-5 . . . . BHA = 15th 41pt, MC = 2nd 81pt runners up. (postponed from Apr by Covid-19 pandemic).
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Sep L 2-0. (H) May L 1-4 . . . BHA = 17th 36pt, MC = 1st 98pt - retained title.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Aug L 0-2. (A) May L 3-1 . . . BHA = 15th 40pt, MC = 1st 100pt - title winners
PREM; P15 . W2 D1 L5 . F8 A23 . W0 D0 L7 . F3 A18 . Pt7 GD-31
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20 = No fans allowed in stadium.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - no meetings.
Withdean Era; from 1999 to 2011 - no league meetings . League Cup - see WE previous encounters.

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 2 C, 18 P, 1 C, 9 16 8 15 14 9 10 / 5 3 1 2 1 2 4 3 1 1 / 2 1 1 1 1 record @ 20/5/24.
PREM: best = 1st - 8 times titles '12 '14 '18 '19 '21 '22 '23 '24 . worst = 18th - '01 .
title favs; 12/13 - 2nd, 13/14 - 1st, 16/17 - 3rd, 17/18 - 1st, 18/19 - 1st, 19/20 - 2nd, 20/21 - 1st, 21/22 - 1st, 22/23 - 1st, 23/24 - 1st.
runners-up - '13 '15 '20, top four - 3 times, top six - '10, top ten - 4 times . stayed up - '04 '06, rel - '01 . Champ's: promo - '00 '02.
PL HONOURS; since the start of the Premier League in 1992, Manchester City (an inaugural club) had won the title twice in the 25 years to 2017 when BHA joined.
Each of those years as champions were during the second decade of the new century.
past managers; Joe Royle (1998-2001), Kevin Keegan (01-5), Stuart Pearce (05-7), Sven Goran Eriksson (07-8), Mark Hughes (08-9),
Roberto Mancini (09-13), Manuel Pellegrini (13-16),
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; finals - '21 '23 winners, '16 '22 s-f . EUROPA LEAGUE; finals - '09 q-f.
FA CUP; winners - '11 '19 '23, finalists - '13 '24 . LEAGUE CUP; winners - '14 '16 '18 '19 '20 '21.

C21 info - BHA met City in an FA Cup s-f at Wembley in 2019 - see History & Travel. Prior to matches played at the Amex (from 2011),
lower league Albion had hosted City in the League Cup at Withdean - see WE previous encounters.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during mid March '20. After June restart City were runners up by finish in late July. Thus the following season began from mid September. City were crowned champions with three games to go. The next terms 21/22 & 22/23 they were 1st again - latterly winning the PL, FAC & CL treble. In 23/24 MC finished 1st for a historic 4th straight time..

MAN UTD

UNITED Prem records from 11/12: 2 1 7 4 5 6 / 2 6 3 2 6 3 8 9 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: title - '13 . runner-up - '12 '18 '21 . podium - '20 '23 . top four - '15 . top six - '16 '17 '19 '22 . top ten - '14 '24.
STATUS; a top three success story since well before turn of the century, recent seasons have seen a relative decline in fortunes.
MANAGER; Ruben Amorim (2024)
previously Erik ten Hag (22-24), Ralf Rangnick (interim 21-22), Michael Carrick (caretaker), Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (18-21) .
owner: Glazer family 3.8bn & Jim Radcliff . ground: Old Trafford 75k . nickname: Red Devils . shirt: red.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 5 4 4 . 17 13 0 . . 19 9 . 38.5 30.7 30.7 - Ruben Amorim & Erik ten Hag
23/24 - 18 06 14 . 57 58 -01 .. 60 8 . 47.3 . 15.7 . 36.8 - Erik ten Hag
22/23 - 23 06 09 . 58 43 15 . . 75 3 . 60.5 . 15.7 . 23.6 - Erik ten Hag
21/22 - 16 10 12 . 57 57 00 . . 58 6 . 42.1 . 26.3 . 31.5 - R Rangnick & OG Solskjaer
20/21 - 21 11 06 . 73 44 29 . . 74 2 . 55.2 . 28.9 . 15.7 - OG Solskjaer
19/20 - 18 12 08 . 66 36 30 . . 66 3 . 47.3 . 31.5 . 21.0 - OG Solskjaer, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 19 09 10 . 65 54 11 . . 66 6 . 50.0 . 23.6 . 26.3 - OG Solskjaer & J Mourinho.
17/18 - 25 06 07 . 68 28 40 . . 81 2 . 65.7 . 15.7 . 18.4 - Jose Mourinho.
16/17 - 18 15 05 . 54 29 25 . . 69 6 . 47.3 . 39.4 . 13.1 - Jose Mourinho.
Jose Mourinho replaced Louis van Gaal and previously David Moyes in a bid to restore unparalleled success achieved under Sir Alex Ferguson.
In the event it remained a tough act to follow.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; 11/12 - group stage, 12/13 - last 16, 13/14 q-f, 15/16 - gp stg, 17/18 - lst 16, 18/19 - q-f, 20/21 - gp stg, 21/22 - lst 16, 23/24 - gp stg.
EUROPA LEAGUE; 11/12 - last 16, 15/16 - lst 16, 16/17 - winners, 19/20 - s-f, 20/21 - finalists, 22/23 - q-f.

FALMER years: from 2011 - seasons 7-14, 17/18-24/25 Prem . FA Cup - see History & Travel previous encounters.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (H) Aug W 2-1 . (A) Jan
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Sep W 1-3 . (H) May L 0-2 . BHA = 11th 48pts, MU = 8th 60pts
22/23 - Graham Potter: (A) Aug W 1-2 . Roberto de Zerbi (H) May W 1-0 . BHA = 6th 62pts, MU = 3rd 75pt ~ Ch Lg
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (A) Feb L 2-0 (H) May W 4-0 . . . BHA = 9th 51pts, MU = 6th 58pt ~ Europa League.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (H) Sep L 2-3. (A) Apr L 2-1 . . . BHA = 16th 41pt, MU = 2nd 74pt runner up ~ Champions Lg.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (A) Nov L 3-1. (H) Jun L 0-3 . . . BHA = 15th 41pt, MU = 3rd 66pt. (postponed from Apr by Covid-19 pandemic).
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Aug W 3-2. (A) Jan L 2-1 .. . BHA = 17th 36pt, MU = 6th 66pt ~ Europa League.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Nov L 1-0. (H) May W 1-0 .. . BHA = 15th 40pt, MU = 2nd 81pt ~ runner up. Ch Lg.
PREM; P15 . W5 D0 L3 . F13 A11 . W2 D0 L5 . F8 A12 . Pt17 GD-2
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20 = No fans allowed in stadium.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - no meetings . Withdean era: from 1999 to 2011 - no meetings.

PREM from 99/00: 1 1 3 1 3 3 2 1 1 1 / 2 1 2 1 7 4 5 6 2 6 / 3 2 6 3 8 record @ 20/5/24.
best = 1st - 8 titles . worst = 8th - '24 . title favs; 99/00 - 1st, 00/1 - 1st, 01/2 - 3rd, 02/3 - 1st, 03/4 - 3rd, 07/8 - 1st. 08/9 - 1st, 11/12 - 2nd.
runner-up - '06 '10 '12 '18 '21 . top four - 6 times, top six - 4 times.
PL HONOURS; since start of the Premier League in 1992 when Manchester United were a founder member,
they have won the title no less than 13 times in the 25 years to 2017 when BHA joined.
C20: Prem champs - 92/93 93/94 95/96 96/97 98/99 . runners-up - 94/95 97/98.
past managers; Sir Alex Ferguson (1986-2013), David Moyes (13-14), Louis van Gaal (14-16), Jose Mourinho (16-18), Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (18-21),
Ralf Rangnick (21-22), Eric ten Hag (22-24).
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; winners '99 '08, finalists '09 '11 . EUROPA LEAGUE; winners '17, finalists '21, s-f '20, q-f '23.
FA CUP; winners '94 '96 '99 '04 '16 '24 finalists '95 '05 '07 '23, s-f '09, '11 '18 . LEAGUE CUP; winners '92 '06 '09 '10 '17 '23 finalists '94 '03. s-f '20 '21

PL/Euro info - United qualified for the Europa League in 2016, worked thru group & aggregate stages, won the final in 2017 and thus became eligible for the next Champions League competition. In 20/21 Utd got into Europa Lg finals initially via ties in the CL group stage. They dramatically lost in the final 11pen10.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. Utd were 3rd. Thus the following season began from mid September. United were runners-up. The next term 21/22 they were 6th. Then a year later reached the podium in 3rd. In 23/24 MU finished 8th.

NEWCASTLE

PREM record from 11/12: 5 16 10 15 18 P, 1 C / 10 13 13 12 11 4 7 11 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: top four - '23, top six - '12 . top ten - '14 '18 '24 . bottom six - '13 '15 . rel - '16 . C'ship: title - '17.
STATUS; regaining a Prem place for the northeast giants continued their stats as a run of the mill side.
However new Arab ownership raised expectations a helluva lot.
Second-Season Syndrome: 10/11 - 12th then 11/12 - 5th, 17/18 - 10th then 18/19 - 13th.
MANAGER; Eddie Howe (21-24), previously Steve Bruce (19-21) .
owner: Saudi Investment Group (mega billions), previously Mike Ashley 2.6bn .
ground: St James Park 52k . nickname: Magpies . shirt: black & white stripes.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 5 4 4 . 14 14 0 . . 19 11 . 38.5 30.7 30.7 - E Howe
23/24 - 18 06 14 . 85 62 23 .. 60 07 . 47.3 . 15.7 . 36.8 - Eddie Howe
22/23 - 19 14 05 . 68 33 35 .. 71 04 . 50.0 . 36.8 . 13.1 - Eddie Howe
21/22 - 13 10 15 . 44 62 -18 . 49 11 . 34.2 . 26.3 . 39.4 - Eddie Howe & Steve Bruce
20/21 - 12 09 17 . 46 62 -16 . 45 12 . 31.5 . 23.6 . 44.7 - S Bruce.
19/20 - 11 11 16 . 38 58 -20 . 44 13 . 28.9 . 28.9 . 42.1 - Steve Bruce, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 12 09 17 . 42 48 -06 . 45 13 . 31.5 . 23.6 . 44.7 - Rafa Benitez.
17/18 - 12 08 18 . 39 47 -08 . 44 10 . 31.5 . 21.0 . 47.3 - Rafa Benitez.
Rafa Benitez stayed with Magpies to steer them out of the Championship and attempt to re-establish in the elite.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: 23/24 - group stage . EUROPA LEAGUE; 12/13 - q-f.

FALMER Years: from 2011 - seasons 7-14, 17/18-24/25 Prem . Season6, 16/17 C'ship.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (A) Oct W 0-1 . (H) May
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: W 3-1(H) Sep . D 1-1 (A) May . BHA = 11th 48pts, NU = 7th 60pts
22/23 - Graham Potter: (H) Aug D 0-0 . Roberto de Zerbi (A) May L 4-1 . BHA = 6th 62pts, NU = 4th 71pt ~ Ch Lg
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Nov D 1-1 . L 2-1 (A) Mar . . . BHA = 9th 51pts, NU = 11th 49pt.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (A) Sep W 0-3 . (H) Mar W 3-0 . . BHA = 16th 41pt, NU = 12th 45pt.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (A) Sep D 0-0 . (H) Jul D 0-0 . . . BHA = 15th, 41pt, NU = 13th 44pt. (postponed from May by Covid-19 pandemic).
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Oct W 0-1 . (H) Apr D 1-1 . . . BHA = 17th 36pt, NU = 13th 45pt
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Sep W 1-0 . (A) Dec D 0-0 . . BHA = 15th 40pt, NU = 10th 44pt.
PREM; P15 . W3 D4 L0 . F9 A3 . W3 D3 L2 . F8 A7 . Pt22 GD+7
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 26/12/20, T3 @ 27/11/20 = No fans allowed in stadium.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Season6 . FA Cup - go to History & Travel, previous encounters.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton, (A) Aug L 2-0. (H) Feb L 1-2 . BHA = 2nd 93pt ~ promoted, NU = 1st 94pt champions.
C'ship; P2 . W0 D0 L1 . F1 A2 . W0 D0 L1 . F0 A2 . Pt0 GD-3
Withdea Era: from 1999 to 2011 - no meetings.

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 11 11 4 3 5 14 7 13 12 18 P / 1 C, 12 5 16 10 15 18 P, 1 C, 10 13 / 13 12 11 4 7 record @ 20/5/24.
PREM: best = 3rd - '03 . worst = 18th - '09 '16 . top four - '02 '03 '23, top six - 2 times, top ten - 4 times.
stayed up - 2 times in bottom six '13 '15, relegated - '09 '16 . C'ship: promo - '10 '17.
PL HONOURS; since the Premier League started in 1992, Newcastle United have twice been runners-up - 95/96 96/97 and on the podium in 93/94.
past managers; Sir Bobby Robson (1999-2004), Graeme Souness (04-6), Glenn Roeder (06-7), Sam Allardyce (07-8), Kevin Keegan (2008),
Joe Kinnear (08-9), Alan Shearer (2009), Chris Hughton (09-10), Alan Pardew (10-14), John Carver (14-15), Steve McClaren (15-16),
Rafael Benitez (16-19), Steve Bruce (19-21)
FA Cup; finalists - '98 '99, s-f - '00 '05, q-f - '20 . EFL CUP; finals - '23 . C21 Europe; CL - '24 . EL finals - '04 s-f, '05 '13 q-f.

C21 info - after being a largely successful outfit in the Prem since Y2k, United hit the skids during '15/16 and were relegated.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended in mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. Utd were 13th. Thus the following season began from mid September. Magpies were 12th. The next term 21/22 they were 11th. Then a year later 4th. In 23/24 NU finished 7th.

NOTT'M FOREST

Prem record from 11/12: 19, 8, 11, 14, 16, 21 / 17, 9, 7, 17, 4 C, 16, 17 6 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: bottom six - '23 '24 . C'ship: promo - '22 . top half - '13 '14 '19 '20 . bottom six - '12 '17.
STATUS; kept trying to find the silver bullet and become a top six second tier side. Then against all odds won the p-o final, thereby putting the past to rest.
second season syndrome: 22/23 - 16th, 23/24 - 17th
MANAGER; Nuno Espirito Santo (2023)
previously Steve Cooper (21-23), Chris Hughton (20-21), Sabri Lamouchi (19-20) .
ground: City Ground 30k . nickname: Forest . shirt: red.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 6 4 3 . 16 13 3 . . 22 06 . 46.1 30.7 23.0 - Nuno Espirito Santo
23/24 - 09 09 20 . 49 67 -18 . 32 17 . 23.6 . 23.6 . 52.6 - (4pt deduction)Nuno Espirito Santo & Steve Cooper
22/23 - 09 11 18 . 38 68 -30 . 38 16 . 23.6 . 28.9 . 47.3 - Steve Cooper
17/18 - 21/22 not Premier League.

FALMER years; from 2011 . Seasons 12-14, 22/23-24/25 Prem . Seasons 1-6, 11/12-16/17 C'ship.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (H) Sep D 2--2 . (A) Feb
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Nov W 2-3 . (H) Mar W 1-0 . BHA = 11th 48pts, NF = 17th 32pts
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Oct D 0-0 . (A) Apr L 3-1 . . . BHA = 6th 62pts, NF = 16th 38pt
17/18 - 21/22 not Premier League.
Prem: P5 . W1 D2 L0 . F3 A2 . W1 D0 L1 . F4 A5 . Pt8 GD0
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017. seasons 1-6
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Dec W 1-0 - in stoppage. (A) Mar D 1-1 - conceded in stoppage . BHA = 10th 66pt. NF = 19th 50pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Dec D 0-0. (A) Mar D 2-2 - in stoppage . . . BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. NF = 8th 67pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (H) Oct L 1-3. (A) May W1-2 - in stoppage . BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, NF = 11th 65pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (A) Sep D 0-0. Under Chris Hughton; (H) Jan L 2-3 . BHA = 20th 47pt, NF = 14th 59pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Aug W 1-0. (A) Apr W 1-2 . . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, NF = 16th 55pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Aug W 3-0. (A) Mar L 3-0 .. . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, NF = 21st 51pt
C'ship record: P12 . W3 D1 L2 . F8 A6 . W2 D3 L1 . F7 A8 . Pt19 GD+1

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 4 6 8-9, 02/3 04/5 C'ship, 06/7-07/8 L1.
Championship & League One - a big fish stuck upstream on the Trent.
Brighton fans could hardly believe they were going to half decent ex-prem and div1 (C'ship) grounds like Forest's in 2002, although getting beat regularly.
From early weeks we needed 'rescue' from certain relegation.
02/3 - under Steve Coppell; (A) Nov L 3-2. (H) Mar W 1-0 . BHA = 23rd - rel, NF = p-os 6th.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (A) Sep W 0-1. (H) Jan D 0-0 . BHA = 20th stayed up, NF = 23rd dropped into League1.
06/7 - under Mark McGhee; (A) Aug L 2-1. MMc sacked soon after. Under Dean Wilkins; (H) Feb W 2-1 . BHA = 18th, NF = 4th p-os . 7700 best home gate.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) Dec L 0-2. (A) Mar D 0-0 . . BHA = 7th, NF 2nd auto promo.
C21 total EFL record: P20 . W5 D2 L3 . F11 A9 . W3 D4 L3 . F11 A13 . Pt30 GD0

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 14 11 16 6 14 23 C, 7 4 2 L1, 19 / 3 6 19 8 11 14 16 21 17 9 / 7 17 4 C, 16 17 @ 20/5/24
Prem: best = 16th '23 . worst = 17th '24 . stayed up - 2 times
C'ship: best = 3rd '10, worst = 23rd '05, p-os - '03 '10 '11, promo - '22 , top half - 5 times, stayed up - 3 times, relegated - '05 . L1: promo - '08.
NOTTINGHAM FOREST were one of the original 22 clubs to play in the new Premier League of 1992. They also competed there from '94 to '97 and lastly '99.
past managers; David Platt (1999-2001), Paul Hart (01-4), Joe Kinnear (2004), Gary Megson (05-6), Colin Calderwood (06-8), Billy Davies (09-11),
Steve McClaren (2011), Steve Cotterill (11-12), Sean O'Driscoll (2012), Alex McLeish (12-13), Billy Davies (13-14), Stuart Pearce (14-15),
Dougie Freedman (15-16), Paul Williams (2016), Philippe Montanier (2016), Gary Brazil (2017), Mark Warburton (17-18), Aitor Karanka (18-19),
Martin O'Neil (2019), Sabri Lamouchi (19-20), Chris Hughton (20-21), Steve Cooper (21-23)
FA Cup; q-f - '96 . EFL Cup; nq . UEFA Cup; q-f - '96.

C21 Info - in 2004 Brighton fans recall a visit to the City Ground alongside the River Trent, where there were flowers. Brian Clough had died a week previously and opposite Forest's club shop was a cellophane covered sea of blooms, all sorts of football mementoes, other trivia and also shirts. One of these was of blue and white stripes, as a touching tribute to his inspiring though brief excursion to the south coast, over thirty years before.
The Chairman responsible for bringing such a big name to boost lowly Albion was Mike Bamber. Sadly, he too passed on but is remembered as prime mover and instigator of BHA's glory days. Clough deserted to Leeds after nine months of only popping over from the midlands, to stay in hotels and Brighton sued. In an out-of-court settlement, a year after raising Sussex hopes to fever pitch, the Messiah admitted letting down, 'the best Chairman I ever worked for'. Bamber had given Him total freedom, carte blanche but perhaps not enough money to eventually turn Albion into a full member of the elite. There was Boardroom talk over drinks, of a new ground but the Borough Council could hardly be described as being onside or remotely supportive. Inevitably it became a dream that slipped away but not finally put to rest. Of course, there will always be football's ups and downs over time. Bamber subsequently presided over our club in division 1 and a FA Cup final. Clough simultaneously took Nottingham Forest to a peak of European success. They were then reduced to League 1 status like little old us. Hey, it's still better than those gory days, ain't it? Although for decade after long twentieth century decade, an overriding assumption prevailed - Brighton definitely had potential.
On 24 July 1999, Nott'm Forest were first visiting team to grace the pitch at leafy Withdean. However you wanted to view it, they were a big club and it had been a very long time since we'd entertained such a salubrious outfit. A tad downhill for the Reds since them on-the-up nineties, with relegation a huge shock.
In 9/10 Forest got into Championship play-offs. Although glory days were put on hold for a while longer. They did it again in 10/11 and guess what? Yeah, see yer in the Championship at Falmer! In years since then to 17/18 Forest were a lower order outfit. At end of 18/19 they got into top ten but on pts well outside p-os.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Forest finished just outside p-os in July due to last day loss. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September. Ex-Albion boss Chris Hughton joined the club as manager in Oct '20. Forest completed in lower order bottom eight. Next term 21/22 they took part in p-os, winning the final and promo to the Prem. A year later finished 16th. In 23/24 NF finished 17th.

SOUTHAMPTON

PREM record from 11/12: 2 C, 14 8 7 6 8 / 17 16 11 15 15 20 P, 4 C, 20 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: rel - '23 . top six - '16 . top ten - '14 '15 '17 . bottom six '18 '19 '21 '22 . C'ship: promo - '24 . runner-up - '12.
STATUS; Saints re-established in the Prem this century, after rising quickly from League One in 2011 . Second-Season Syndrome: 12/13 - 14th then 13/14 - 8th.
MANAGER; Russel Martin (2023), previously Ruben Selles (2023), Nathan Jones (22-23) Ralph Hasenhuttl (18-22) .
owner: Dragan Solak 80% (previously Gao Jisheng 3.1bn) & Kat Leibherr 20%.
ground: St Marys 32k . nickname: Saints . shirt: red & white stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Teir 4 @ 26/12/20 = no fans . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . . W% . D% . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 01 02 10 . 10 25 -15 . 05 20 . 07.6 15.3 56.9 - Russell Martin
23/24 - not Premier League
22/23 - 06 07 25 . 36 73 -37 . 25 20 . 15.7 . 18.4 . 65.7 - Ruben Selles, Nathan Jones & Ralph Hasenhuttl
21/22 - 09 13 16 . 43 67 -24 . 40 15 . 23.6 . 34.2 . 42.1 - Ralph Hasenhuttl
20/21 - 12 07 19 . 47 68 -21 . 43 15 . 31.5 . 18.4 . 50.0 - Ralph Hasenhuttl.
19/20 - 15 07 16 . 51 60 -09 . 52 11 . 39.4 . 18.4 . 42.1 - Ralph Hasenhuttl, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 09 12 17 . 45 65 -20 . 39 16 . 23.6 . 31.5 . 44.7 - Ralph Hasenhuttl & Mark Hughes.
17/18 - 07 15 16 . 37 56 -19 . 36 17 . 18.4 . 39.4 . 42.1 - Mark Hughes & Mauricio Pellegrino.
16/17 - 12 10 16 . 41 48 -07 . 46 08 . 31.5 . 26.3 . 42.1 - Claude Puel.
Saints are not renowned for long-serving managers and it was the turn of Frenchman Claude Puel for a single season.
Hughes maintained the club's PL status when drafted in to halt their fall toward level two in a turgid Prem campaign.
EUROPA LEAGUE; 15/16 - play-offs, 16/17 - group stage.

FALMER years; from 2011 - seasons 7-12 14, 17/18-22/23 24/25 Prem . Season1, 11/12 C'ship . EFL Cup - see History & Travel previous encounters.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (H) Nov D 1-1 . (A) Feb
23/24 - not Premier League
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Dec W 1-3 . (H) May W 3-1 . BHA = 6th 62pts, So'ton = 20th 25pt ~ rel
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Apr D 2-2 . (A) Dec D 1-1 .. BHA = 9th 51pts, So'ton = 15th 40pt.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (H) Dec L 1-2 . (A) Mar W 1-2 . BHA = 16th 41pt, So'ton = 15th 43pt.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (H) Aug L 0-2 . (A) Jul D 1-1 . . BHA = 15th 41pt, So'ton = 11th 52pt. (postponed from May by Covid-19 pandemic).
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Sep D 2-2 . (H) Mar L 0-1 .. BHA = 17th 36pt, So'ton = 16th 39pt.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Oct D 1-1 . (A) Jan D 1-1 ... BHA = 15th 40pt, So'ton = 17th 36pt.
PREM; P13 . W1 D3 L3 . F8 A10 . W2 D4 L0 . F10 A9 . Pt16 GD-1

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Season1.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Nov L 3-0 . (H) Jan W 3-0 . BHA = 10th 66pt. So'ton = 2nd 88pt - promoted.
C'ship; P2 . W1 D0 L0 . F3 A0 . W0 D0 L1 . F0 A3 . Pt3 GD0

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 7 11-12, 05/6 C'ship, 09/10-10/11 L1 . League Cup - see previous encounters.
Championship & League One - in for a big Test again.
Saints they were named but not exactly of heavenly variety, while Albion had the devil of a job to elevate on entering the Withdean era.
But then it happened three times in four seasons, as the old Dell was er, docked in favour of St Marys.
We'd stayed up, they'd come down to the Championship and Mark McGhee was charged with making us a pukka south-coast outfit.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (A) Jan L 2-1. (H) Apr L 0-2 .. BHA = 24th 38pts rel to L1. So'ton = 12th 58pt.
9/10 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Nov W 1-3. (H) Apr D 2-2 . . . BHA = 13th 59pts, So'ton = 7th 73pts missing a p-o place by 7pts.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Nov D 0-0. (H) Apr L 1-2 . . . BHA = 1st 95pt ~ champions. So'ton ~ runners-up.
C21 total EFL record: P8 . W1 D1 L2 . F6 A6 . W1 D1 L2 . F4 A6. Pt8 GD-2

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 15 10 11 8 12 20 P, 12 6 20 23 C / 7 2 L1, 2 C, 14 8 7 6 8 17 16 / 11 15 15 20 P, 4 C record @ 4/5/24.
PREM: best = 6th - '16 . worst = 20th - '05 '23 . top six - '16, top ten - 5 times . stayed up - bottom six '00 '18 '19 '21 '22, relegated - '05 '23.
C'ship: promo - '12 '24, rel - '09 . L1: promo - '11
PREM; Southampton were one of the 22 inaugural members of the new Premier League in 1992. They were regulars until relegated in 04/05, rejoining for 12/13.
past managers; Dave Jones (1997-2000), Glenn Hoddle (00-1), Stuart Gray (2001), Gordon Strachan (01-4), Paul Sturrock (2004), Steve Wigley (2004),
Harry Redknapp (04-5), George Burley (05-8), Nigel Pearson (2008), Jan Poortvliet (08-9), Mark Wotte (2009), Alan Pardew (09-10), Nigel Adkins (10-13),
Mauricio Pochettino (13-14), Ronald Koeman (14-16), Claude Puel (16-17), Mauricio Pellegrino (17-18), Mark Hughes (2018), Ralph Hasenhuttl (18-22),
Nathan Jones (22-23),
FA Cup; finalists - '03, s-f - '18 . EFL Cup; finalists - '17 . LEAGUE TROPHY; winners - '10 . C21 Europe; EL finals - nq.

C21: Withdean - talk about big-boys toys, the old chairman makes a comeback with the bloke who was his rival, before others ousted 'em in the first place. In 06/7 they were 6th in the Championship and got done by Derby in p-os on penalties. In 07/8 they were in a relegation spot going into final fixtures, against bottom club Colchester. As Dame Vera sang, 'we'll meet again, don't know when... some sunny day.' But hey, it all went tits up for 08/9 with relegation and then administration, plus a 10pt deduction in League1. In 9/10 they remained there due to that negative start. 10/11 saw promo with BHA.
Falmer - post the single season in the Championship of 11/12, Soton regained a place in the Prem.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended in mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. Saints were 11th. Thus the following season began from mid September. They finished 15th. The next term 21/22 they were 15th again. Then bottom and rel. In 23/24 Southampton were 4th in the C'ship, winning the p-o final.

TOTTENHAM

PREM record from 11/12: 4 5 6 5 3 2 / 3 4 6 7 4 8 5 7 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: runner-up - '17 . podium - '16 '18 . top four - '12 '19 '22 . top six - '13 '14 '15 '20 '24 . top ten - '21 '23.
STATUS; Spurs have improved this century from being a useful top 10 side to actually challenge for the podium in recent seasons.
MANAGER; Ange Postecoglou (2023)
previously Ryan Mason (caretaker), Cristian Stellini (interim), Antonio Conte (21-23), Nuno Espirito Santo (2021), Jose Mourinho (19-21) .
owner: Joe Lewis 3.9bn & Daniel Levy . ground: Hotspur Stad 62k . nickname: Spurs . shirt: white.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 6 2 5 . 28 14 14 . . 20 7 . 46.1 15.3 38.5 - A Postecoglou
23/24 - 20 06 12 . 74 61 10 . . 66 5 . 52.6 . 15.7 . 31.5 - Ange Postecoglou
22/23 - 18 06 14 . 70 63 07 . . 60 8 . 47.3 . 15.7 . 36.8 - C Stellini & A Conte
21/22 - 22 05 11 . 69 40 29 . . 71 4 . 57.8 . 13.1 . 28.9 - Antonio Conte & Nuno Espirito Sancho.
20/21 - 18 08 12 . 68 45 23 . . 62 7 . 47.3 . 21.0 . 31.5 - Ryan Mason & Jose Mourinho.
19/20 - 16 11 11 . 61 47 14 . . 59 6 . 42.1 . 28.9 . 28.9 - Jose Mourinho, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 23 02 13 . 67 39 28 . . 71 4 . 60.5 . 05.2 . 34.2 - Mauricio Pochettino.
17/18 - 23 08 07 . 74 36 38 . . 77 3 . 60.5 . 21.0 . 18.4 - Mauricio Pochettino.
16/17 - 26 08 04 . 86 26 60 . . 86 2 . 68.4 . 21.0 . 10.5 - Mauricio Pochettino.
Mauricio Pochettino left So'ton with a good reputation and inherited a side not quite capable of finishing in the top three. Thus his skill as a top coach was further tested.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; 16/17 - group stage, 17/18 - last 16, 18/19 - finalists, 19/20 - lst 16, 22/23 - lst 16.
EUROPA LEAGUE; 11/12 - group stage, 12/13 - q-f, 13/14 - last 16, 14/15 - lst 32, 15/16 - lst 16, 16/17 - lst 32, 20/21 - lst 16, 21/22 - gp.

FALMER years: from 2011 - seasons 7-14, 17/18-24/25 Prem.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (H) Oct W 3-2. (A) May
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Dec W 4-2. (A) Feb L 2-1 . BHA = 11th 48pts, TH = 5th 66pts
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Oct L 0-1 . (A) Apr L 2-1 . BHA = 6th 62pts, TH = 8th 60pt
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Mar L 0-2 . (A) Apr W 0-1 . . BHA = 9th 51pts, TH = 4th 71pts ~ Champions League.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (A) Nov L 2-1 . (H) Jan W 1-0 . . BHA = 16th 41pt, TH = 7th 62pt ~ Europa qual.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (H) Oct W 3-0 . (A) Dec L 2-1 . . BHA = 15th 41pt, TH = 6th 59pt ~ Europa League.
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Sep L 1-2 . (A) Apr L 1-0 . . . BHA = 17th 36pt, TH = 4th 71pt ~ Champions League.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Dec L 2-0 . (H) Apr D 1-1 . . . BHA = 15th 40pt, TH = 3rd 77pt ~ Ch Lg.
PREM; P15 . W4 D1 L3 . F13 A10 . W1 D0 L6 . F5 A11 . Pt16 GD-3
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20 = no fans . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - no league meetings . League Cup - go to History & Travel, previous encounters.
Withdean era: from 1999 to 2011 - no league meetings . FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.

PREM from 99/00: 10 12 9 10 14 9 5 5 11 8 / 4 5 4 5 6 5 3 2 3 4 / 6 7 4 8 5 record @ 20/5/24.
best = 2nd - '17 . worst = 14th - '04 . top four - '10 '12 '16 '18 '19 '22, top six - 8 times, top ten - 7 times.
PL HONOURS; Tottenham Hotspur are one of the original Premier League clubs from 1992 but although runners-up,
had never won the title in all those 25 years to 2017 when BHA joined.
past managers; George Graham (1998-2001), Glenn Hoddle (01-3), David Pleat (03-4), Jacques Santini (2004), Martin Jol (04-7), Juande Ramos (07-8),
Harry Redknapp (08-12), Andre Villas-Boas (12-14), Tim Sherwood (2014), Mauricio Pochettino (14-19), Jose Mourinho (19-21), Nuno Espirito Santo (2021),
Antonio Conte (21-23).
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE; finalists - 19, finals - '11 q-f . EUROPA LEAGUE; finals - '07 q-f, '13 q-f.
FA CUP; finalists - not in the Prem era, from 1992, s-f - '93 '95 '99 '01 '10 '12 '17 . LEAGUE CUP; winners - '99 '08, finalists - '02 '09 '15 '21.

C21: Withdean - FA Cup tie 2005... a nice afternoon up the lane.
What a difference a big FAC round3 tie makes. A day out in London, even post Xmas & New Year is still to be savoured and Brighton fans had gone to White Hart Lane in early Jan '05 by the odd five and a half thousand. Spurs supporters too hot footed to Tottenham and 36000 turned up, which at 30 to 50 quid a seat is an awful lot of dosh. Albion took on Prem giants following some half decent results for '04/5, keeping us safely above the Championship drop zone. Almost in reaction to dismal home surroundings, Brighton love playing in big stadia and often produce a relative rise in standard.
Spurs allowed Seagulls time and space to soar and so we saw a very useful performance, in a cut and thrust cup atmosphere. With eight minutes left it showed one apiece on the board and a replay was definitely on. Then a piece of brilliance from one of several Internationals in white and navy blue, gave those metropolitan big boys a path to progress. BHA got beat but felt far from down and out. There was real hope for a positive gathering of momentum, to push ahead and try to establish in FL's second tier. It didn't happen during the Withdean era but we deserved to get there via Falmer's promised land anyhow.
Falmer - due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended in mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. Spurs were 6th. Thus the following season began from mid September. They got to 7th. The next term 21/22 they were 4th. A year later finished 8th. In 23/24 Hotspur finished 5th.

WEST HAM

PREM record from 11/12: 3 C, 10 13 12 7 11 / 13 10 16 6 7 14 9 14 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: top six - '21 . top ten - '13 '16 '19 '22 '24 . bottom six - '20 . C'ship: promo - '12.
STATUS; Hammers have been elite league regulars this century apart from a couple of seasons at most in level 2.
Second-Season Syndrome: 12/13 - 10th then 13/14 - 13th.
MANAGER; Julen Lopetegui (2024), previously David Moyes (19-24) .
owner: David Gold & David Sullivan 1.5bn . ground: London Stad 60k . nickname: Iron . shirt: claret & light blue.

Seasn . W D L . . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 4 3 7 . 18 27 -9 . . 15 14 . 28.5 21.4 50.0 - Julen Lopetegui
23/24 - 14 10 14 . 60 74 -14 ... 52 09 . 36.8 . 26.3. 36.8 - David Moyes
22/23 - 11 07 20 . 42 55 -13 ... 40 14 . 28.9 . 18.4 . 52.6 - David Moyes
21/22 - 16 08 14 . 60 51 09 . .. 56 07 . 42.1 . 21.0 . 36.8 - David Moyes
20/21 - 19 08 11 . 62 47 15 . .. 65 06 . 50.0 . 21.0 . 28.9 - David Moyes.
19/20 - 10 09 19 . 49 62 -13 . . 39 16 . 26.3 . 23.6 . 50.0 - David Moyes, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 15 07 16 . 52 55 -03 . . 52 10 . 39.4 . 18.4 . 42.1 - Manuel Pelligrini.
17/18 - 10 12 16 . 48 68 -20 . . 42 13 . 26.3 . 31.5 . 42.1 - D Moyes & S Bilic.
16/17 - 12 09 17 . 47 64 -17 . . 45 11 . 31.5 . 23.6 . 44.7 - Slaven Bilic.
Bilic followed Sam Allardyce at old Upton Park then made the London Stadium at Stratford new home of Irons. His aim was to make it a modern fortress - oh dear!
Moyes took over from Bilic as the Iron were bending out of shape, with cracks appearing throughout a fraught term.
EUROPA LEAGUE; 15/16 - 3rd q rnd, 16/17 - play-offs, 21/22 - s-f. 23/24 - q-f . Conference: 22/23 - winners

FALMER years; from 2011 - seasons 7-14, 17/18-24/25 Prem. Season1, 11/12 C'ship.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (A) Dec . (H) Apr
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Aug L 1-3 . (A) Dec D 0-0 . BHA = 11th 48pts, WHU = 9th 52pts
22/23 - Graham Potter: (A) Aug W 0-2 . Roberto de Zerbi (H) Mar W 4-0 . BHA = 6th 62pts, WHU = 14th 40pt
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) May W 3-1 . (A) Dec D 1-1 . . BHA = 9th 51pts, WHU = 7th 56pts ~ Europa Conference.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (A) Dec D 2-2 . (H) May D 1-1 . . BHA = 16th 41pt, WHU = 6th 65pt ~ Europa Lg.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (H) Aug D 1-1 . (A) Feb D 3-3 .. . BHA = 15th 41pt, WHU = 39th 16pt.
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Oct W 1-0 . (A) Jan D 2-2 . . . BHA = 17th 36pt, WHU = 10th 52pt.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Oct W 0-3 . (H) Feb W 3-1 .. . BHA = 15th 40pt, WHU = 13th 42pt.
PREM; P14 . W4 D2 L1 . F14 A7 . W2 D5 L0 . F12 A7 . Pt25 GD+12
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20 = no fans . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Season1.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet, (H) Oct L 0-1. (A) Apr L 6-0 . BHA = 10th 66pt. WHU = 3rd 86pt ~ won p-o final.
C'ship; P2 . W0 D0 L1 . F0 A1 . W0 D0 L1 . F0 A6 . Pt0 GD-7

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Season 6, 04/5 C'ship . FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
Championship - right up the 'ammers.
Mark McGhee had got BHA back into the Championship via playoffs in '04 and got the difficult job to keep us there against all odds.
04/5 - (A) 13/11/04 W 0-1 - cue 5k BHA hysteria. (H) 23/4/05 D 2-2 - cue more excitement . BHA = 20th 51pts - cue excess emotion. WHU = p-os & promo to elite.
C21 total C'ship: P4 . W0 D1 L1 . F2 A3 . W1 D0 L1 . F1 A6 . Pt4 GD-6

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 9 15 7 18 P, 4 6 C, 9 15 10 9 / 17 20 P, 3 C, 10 13 12 7 11 13 10 / 16 6 7 14 9 record @ 20/5/24.
PREM best = 6th - '21, 7th - '02 '16 '22 . worst = 20th - '11 . top six '21, top ten - 10 times . stayed up - '01 '07 '10 '20, rel - '03 '11
C'ship: promo - '05 '12, p-os - '04
past managers; Harry Redknapp (1994-2001), Glenn Roeder (01-3), Alan Pardew (03-6), Alan Curbishley (06-8), Gianfranco Zola (08-10),
Avram Grant (10-11), Sam Allardyce (11-15), Slaven Bilic (15-17), David Moyes (17-18), Manuel Pellegrini (18-19), David Moyes (19-24)
Prem: the league originated in 1992 and WHU were promoted out of revised Div1 to take part from 93/94 thru 03/04.
EUROPA LEAGUE; conf final - '23 . semi-finals - '22 . FA Cup; finalists - '06 . EFL Cup; s-f - '11 '14.

C21 background info - two years before going there for FAC3 in Jan '07 Brighton fans went to Tottenham in their thousands to support our team in a round3 tie at Premiership White Hart Lane. Supply of tickets was exceeded by demand and many devotees happily found a post-Xmas thirty-five quid for seats in a supplementary second section, with super side views.
This time for New Year in an equivalent Cup game at West Ham, a priority was given to holders of Millwall JPT QF stubs and then Uncle Tom Cobblers to all. When Brighton visited Hammers in the Championship that season of 04/5, restricted tickets sold out early and the Upton Park outfit refused any extras. An availability argument raged, with opinions from all factions of support being free to air. Yet more ructions during this first week of January 2007 and it was very interesting to see how things panned out for future. Money cannot buy everything, can it?
Alan Curbishley became manager at West Ham, having replaced Alan Pardew when those blowing bubbles burst down at Boleyn Ground and Green Street was covered at length in tabloid brown stuff. Hammers had previously failed to somehow close out the FA Cup final in May '06, when a right old east-end knees up in Cardiff turned into a sickening second Wembley nightmare scene. It was going from bad to worse, whilst a new sugar daddy entered the Boardroom promising a sweet smell of success. Alf Garnet would have turned in his municipal grave, as even a hardened cynic might just believe, oi yeah, actually, money can buy everything.
For 08/9 they were top-ten anyway. But it kinda went tits up in 9/10 when new owners took over. Franco Zola was then in the hot seat. Hammers just beat the drop but the little Italian maestro didn't. For 10/11 with Avram Grant in charge, Hammers were relegated to the Championship. Some people wanted to blame David Gold and Karen Brady for east-end trouble and strife. What do you think? Answers on a postcard to - revamped Olympic Stadium, London 2012... But in 2016 they were playing there as a Prem outfit!
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended in mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. Iron were 16th. Thus the following season began from mid September. WHU were 6th. The next term 21/22 they were 7th. A year later finished 14th. In 23/24 WHU finished 9th.

WOLVES

PREM record from 11/12: 20 P, 23 C, 1 L1, 7 14 15 1 C / 7 7 13 10 13 14 18 @ 2/12/24.
Prem: top ten - '19 '20 '22 . rel - '12 . C'ship: title - '18 . rel - '13 . L1: title - '14.
STATUS; Wanderers have flirted with the Prem a few times this century but have now consolidated there . Second Season Syndrome; 09/10 - 15th, 10/11 - 17th.
MANAGER; Gary O'Neil (2023)
Julen Lopetegui (22-23), Steve Davis (interim), Bruno Lage (21-22), Nuno Espirito Santo (17-21).
owner: Guo Guangchang 4.4bn . ground: Molineux 32k . nickname: Wolves . shirt: old gold.

Seasn . W D L . . . . F A GD . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 - 2 3 8 . 22 32 -10 . . 9 18 . 15.3 23.0 61.5 - G O'Neil
23/24 - 13 07 18 . 50 65 -15 . 46 14 . 34.2 . 18.4 . 47.3 - Gary O'Neil
22/23 - 11 08 19 . 31 58 -27 . 41 13 . 28.9 . 21.0 . 50.0 - J Lopetegui & B Lage
21/22 - 15 06 17 . 38 43 -05 . 51 10 . 39.4 . 15.7 . 44.7 - Bruno Lage.
20/21 - 12 09 17 . 36 52 -15 . 45 13 . 31.5 . 23.6 . 44.7 - NE Santo.
19/20 - 15 14 09 . 51 40 11 .. 59 07 . 39.4 . 36.8 . 23.6 - NE Santo, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 16 09 13 . 47 46 01 .. 57 07 . 42.1 . 23.6 . 34.2
Santo did what several managers hadn't been able to do since Mick McCarthy got the old gold elbow in the Prem of 2012.
13/14 - 17/18 not Premier League.
Europa League: 19/20 - q-f.

FALMER Years; from 2011 - seasons 8-14, 18/19-24/25 Prem . Seasons 2 4-6, 12/13 14/15-16/17 C'ship.
24/25 - under Fabian Hurzeler: (H) Oct D 2-2. (A) May
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Aug W 1-4. (H) Jan D 0-0 . . BHA = 11th 48pts, WW = 14th 46pts
22/23 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (A) Nov W 2-3. (H) Apr W 6-0 . . BHA = 6th 62pts, WW = 13th 41pt
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Dec L 0-1 . (A) Apr W 0-3 . . . . BHA = 9th 51pts, WW = 10th 51pts.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (H) Jan D 3-3 . (A) May L 2-1 . . . . BHA = 16th 41pt, WW = 13th 45pt.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (H) Dec D 2-2 . (A) Mar D 0-0 . . . . BHA = 15th 41pt, WW = 7th 59pt.
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Oct W 1-0 . (A) Apr D 0-0 .. . . . BHA = 17th 36pt, WW = 7th 57pt.
17/18 - not Premier League.
Prem: P13 . W2 D4 L1 . F14 A8 . W3 D2 L1 . F11 A5 . Pt19 GD12
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20 = No fans allowed in stadium.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Seasons 2 4-6.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Nov D 3-3. (H) May W 2-0 . . . . . BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. WW = 23rd 51pt - relegated to L1.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (A) Dec D 1-1. Under Chris Hughton; (H) Mar D 1-1 . BHA = 20th 47pt, WW = 7th 78pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Sep D 0-0. (H) Jan L 0-1 .. BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, WW = 14th 58pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Oct W 1-0. (A) Apr W 0-2 .. BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, WW = 15th 58pt
C'ship record: P8 . W2 D1 L1 . F4 A2 . W1 D3 L0 . F6 A4 . Pt13 GD+4

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 4 6-7, 02/3 04/5-05/6 C'ship
Championship - living on past glories.
There was div1 (C'ship) fare at Molineux while Albion struggled in div3 (League Two), before escaping during the Withdean era.
02/3 - under Steve Coppell; (A) 11/11/02 D 1-1. (H) 8/2/03 W 4-1 . BHA = 23rd 45pt rel, WW = 5th 76pt won p-os.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 14/9/04 L 0-1 - worrying wobble. (A) 28/12/04 D 1-1 - wot a jolly, gobby Moly . BHA = 20th 51pt, WW = 9th 66pt.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 1/11/05 D 1-1 - nearly blew our house down. (A) 22/4/06 L 1-0 - no luck in their lair . BHA = 24th 38pt rel, WW 7th 67pt miles off p-os.
C21 total C'ship record: P14 . W3 D2 L2 . F9 A4 . W1 D5 L1 . F8 A7 . Pt19 GD+6

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 7 12 3 5 C, 20 P, 9 7 5 7 1 C / 15 17 20 P, 23 C, 1 L1, 7 14 15 1 C, 7 / 7 13 10 13 14 record @ 20/5/24.
PREM; top ten - '19 '20 '22 . stayed up - 2 times in bottom six '10 '11, rel - '04 '12 . C'ship: promo - '03 '09 '18, p-os - '02 '07, rel - '13.
past managers; Colin Lee (1998-2000), Dave Jones (01-4), Glenn Hoddle (04-6), Mick McCarthy (06-12), Terry Connor (2012), Stale Solbakken (2012),
Dean Saunders (2013), Kenny Jackett (13-16), Walter Zenga (2016), Paul Lambert (16-17), Nuno Espirito Santo (17-21), Bruno Lage (21-22), Julen Lopetegui (22-23)
PREM: Wolves were not inaugural members of the league in 1992 and had competed there merely four times
in the 25 years to 2017 when BHA joined - all registered this century.
FA Cup: s-f - '98 '19 . EFL Cup: nq for finals . Europa Lg: group stage '20.

C21 Info - B'fans of a certain age think of Wanderers as a very big club. They were Premiership members briefly in 03/4 to perpetuate the dream. Once upon a time, BHA aspired to elite staus as well, while Wolves only found themselves at the door of bread and butter clubs in lower leagues. Then a 21st century Molineux became an impressive sight and while the world turned, WW rose again as Albion slumped. In 06/7 they were in C'ship p-os, versus West Brom - oh dear! In 07/8 they were almost in p-os, losing a k-o place in the final league match. An old gold & black day then! Hey, they done good in 08/9 and won the Championship. In 9/10 they only stayed in the Prem and all. For 10/11, Wolves stayed up on the final day as others fell at the last hurdle. But in 11/12 Wolves were relegated from the elite. And they fell straight thru C'ship... but immediately bounced back from L1 in 13/14. Wanderers were eventually promoted back to the PL once more as champions in 17/18.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended in mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. WW were 7th. Thus the following season began from mid September. Wolves were 13th. The next term 21/22 they were 10th. A year later finished 13th. In 23/24 WW finished 14th.

CHAMPIONSHIP

BLACKBURN

C'ship record from 11/12: 19 P, 17 8 9 15 22 C / 2 L1, 15 11 15 8 7 19 @ 4/5/24.
Prem: rel - '12 . C'ship: rel - '17 . L1: promo - '18.
STATUS; an ex-Prem outfit since as recently as 2012, Rovers seek to regain their true level sooner than later.
MANAGER; John Eustace (2024)
previously Jon Dahl Tomasson (22-23), Tony Mowbray (17-22) .
ground : Ewood Park 31k . nickname: Rovers . shirt: light blue & white halves.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER Years; from 2011 . Seasons 2-6, 12/13-16/17 Championship.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Jan D 1-1. (H) Feb D 1-1 . . . . . BHA = 4th 75pt p-os, BR = 17th 58pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (H) Nov W 3-0. (A) Apr D 3-3 . .. BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, BR = 8th 70pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (H) Nov D 1-1. under Chris Hughton; (A) Mar W 0-1 . BHA = 20th 47pt, BR = 9th 67pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Aug W 1-0. (A) Jan W 0-1 . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, BR = 15th 55pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Dec W 2-3. (H) Apr W 1-0 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, BR = 22nd 51pt relegated
C'ship; P10 . W3 D2 L0 F7 A2 . W3 D2 L0 F9 A6 . Pt22 GD+8
Withdean era - from 1999 to 2011, no meetings.

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 11 2 C, 10 6 15 15 6 10 7 15 / 10 15 19 P, 17 8 9 15 22 C, 2 L1, 15 / 11 15 8 7 19 @ 4/5/24
Prem: best = 6th '03, worst = 19th '12 . top ten - 6 times '02 '03 '06 '07 '08 '10 . stayed up - 4 times '04 '05 '09 '11, relegated - '12.
C'ship: promo - '01, rel - '17 . L1: promo - '18.
BLACKBURN ROVERS were one of the original 22 inaugural clubs when the Premier League began in 1992. And since, were one
of just six teams to win the title in the 25 years until 2017 when BHA joined . C20 Prem: title - 94/95.
past managers; Brian Kidd (1998-9), Graeme Souness (2000-4), Mark Hughes (04-8), Paul Ince (2008), Sam Allardyce (08-10), Steve Kean (10-12),
Henning Berg (2012), Michael Appleton (2013), Gary Bowyer (13-15), Paul Lambert (15-16), Owen Coyle (16-17), Tony Mowbray (17-22), JD Thomasson (22-24)
FA Cup; s-f - '05 '07, q-f - '93 '01 '12 . EFL Cup; winners - '02, s-f - '93 '03 '06 '10, q-f - '99 '09.

Footnote - Rovers were relegated from the Premiership in 11/12 since spending eleven seasons in the elite. In 16/17 they dropped into League One but regained C'ship status after 17/18. At end of 18/19 Rovers were lev2 midtable.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Blackburn finished in mid table in July. Thus the following C'ship season began from mid September. Rovers finished in mid table. Next term 21/22 they were 8th. Then 7th. In 23/24 Rovers were 19th in the C'ship.

BRISTOL CITY

C'ship record from 11/12: 20, 24 C, 12, 1 L1, 18 17 / 11 8 12 19 17 14 11 @ 4/5/24.
C'ship: bottom six - '12 '21 . rel - '13 . L1: title - '15.
STATUS; something of a yoyo club with aspirations for higher placing in the EFL pecking order.
MANAGER; Liam Manning (2023)
previously Nigel Pearson (21-23), Dean Holden (20-21).
ground: Ashton Gate 27k . nickname: Robins . shirt: red.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20 & 26/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 17/12/20 = 2000 fans.

FALMER years; from 2011. Seasons 1-2 5-6 . 11/12-12/13 15/16-16/17 Championship.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Sep W 0-1. (H) Jan W 2-0 . . . .. BHA = 10th 66pt. BC = 20th, 49pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Nov W 2-0. (A) Mar D 0-0 . . . . . BHA = 4th, BC = 24th - relegated.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Oct W 2-1. (A) Feb W 0-4 . BHA = 3rd 89pt, BC = 18th 52pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Nov W 0-2. (H) Apr L 0-1 .. BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, BC = 17th 54pt
C'ship record: P8 . W3 D0 L1 . F6 A2 . W3 D1 L0 . F7 A0 . Pt19 GD+11

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 3 5 8 . 01/2, 03/4 06/7 League One . League Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
League One - getting out of tier three was the hardest bit.
Robins were a useful div2 club getting to div1 for 98/99 as Albion sought Withdean. Back a year later when Seagulls were on a flight path out of div3 by 2001.
01/2 - under Peter Taylor; (A) 3/11/01 L 1-0. (H) 1/4/02 W 2-1 . BHA won title, BC = 7th o/s p-os 73pts.
03/4 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 15/11/03 L 1-4 - bloody awful. (A) 24/4/04 D 0-0 - where bloody good . BHA = 4th 77pts, BC = 3rd 82pts -
both sides contested p-os. Final - Brighton 1-0 Bristol City.
06/7 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 2/9/06 L 1-0 - start of the end. under Dean Wilkins; (H) 24/2/07 L 0-2 - oh dear! BHA =18th, BC = 2nd - auto promo.
C21 total EFL record: P14 . W4 D0 L3 . F9 A9 . W4 D2 L1 . F8 A1 . Pt26 GD+7

EFL from 99/00: 9 9 7 3 3 7 9 2 L1, 4 10 / 10 15 20 24 C, 12 1 L1, 18 17 11 8 / 12 19 17 14 11 C @ 4/5/24
C'ship: best = 4th, worst = 24th . p-os - '08, top half - '09 '10 '18 '19 '20, rel - '13 . L1: promo - '07 '15.
past managers; Tony Pulis (1999-2000), Danny Wilson (2000-4), Brian Tinnion (04-5), Gary Johnson (05-10), Steve Coppell (2010), Keith Millen (10-11),
Derek McInnes (2012), Sean O'Driscoll (12-13), Steve Cotterill (13-16), Lee Johnson (16-20), Dean Holden (20-21), Nigel Pearson (21-23)
FA Cup - nq . EFL Trophy; winner - '03 '15, finalist - '00, s-f - '02 '07 . EFL Cup; s-f - '18

Background - as expected by Brighton fans since our League1 visit to Ashton Gate, (given circumstances had changed), the squad got radically altered. On that summer day of September '06, in an early-season sparring contest, Mark McGhee fell foul of fans and ultimately his Chairman. In a slightly different ball-game, coach Dean Wilkins was also building for a future and generally still had backing; while inheriting, understanding and tackling latent problems. McGhee's fielded team mighta been called experimental, having shown the door to numerous established pros before pre-season. By default, Wilkins adapted those remaining personnel to needs as he saw fit for purpose to progress. If ongoing League1 results were expressed in form of a graph; an undulating upward curve reached a plateau, then needed to be closely monitored ultra carefully, for signs of downward motion. There were post-match measures pinpointing how far Brighton had fallen in relation to a typical top-ten League1 club, who we crucially defeated in regaining Championship status - albeit several years before. In order to progress, Albion might review it like past play-off, or Millennium Stadium style events charged with positive energy. It was taken as a serious opportunity to re-engage a winning mentality pretty damn quick. But in reality, footy life ain't so straightforward.
City done good in the Championship of 07/8 and BHA wanted to get back there asap and all. City completed their 08/9 & 09/10 programmes established in the top half of the Champ's table. Out of work Steve Coppell then took the Ashton Gate seat for 10/11 but left quickly - Robins finished 15th. They subsequently spent 2 seasons in L1, for 13/14 & 14/15. At end of 18/19 Robins finished close to p-os.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. City finished in mid table in July. Thus the following C'ship season began from mid September. Robins finished in the bottom six. Next term 21/22 they were 17th. Then 14th. In 23/24 City were 11th in the C'ship.

BURNLEY

C'ship record from 11/12: 13 11 2 C, 19 P, 1 C, 16 / 7 15 10 17 18 P, 1 C, 19 P @ 20/5/24.
Prem: top ten - '18 '20 . bottom six - '17 '19 '21, rel - '22 '24 . C'ship: promo - '14 '16.
STATUS; yo-yo club sprang to mind in the previous decade, for this historic northwest outfit . Second-Season Syndrome: 16/17 - 16th & 17/18 - 7th.
MANAGER; Scott Parker (2024)
previously Craig Bellamy (interim), Vincent Kompany (22-24), Mike Jackson (interim), Sean Dyche (12-22) .
owner: ALK Capital, previously Mike Garlick 62m & John Banaszkiewicz.
ground: Turf Moor 22k . nickname: Clarets . shirt: Claret, light blue.
Sean Dyche took over from Eddie Howe in 2012, gained promotion twice and overall, got a foothold in the Premier League.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 onwards - not Premier League
23/24 - 05 09 24 . 41 78 -37 . 24 19 . 13.1 . 23.6 . 63.1 - Vincent Company
22/23 - not Premier League.
21/22 - 07 14 17 . 34 53 -19 . 35 18 . 18.4 . 36.8 . 44.7 - Mike Jackson & Sean Dyche
20/21 - 10 09 19 . 33 55 -22 . 39 17 . 26.3 . 23.6 . 50.0 - Sean Dyche.
19/20 - 15 09 14 . 43 50 -07 . 54 10 . 39.4 . 23.6 . 36.8 - Sean Dyche, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 11 07 20 . 45 68 -23 . 40 15 . 28.9 . 18.4 . 52.6 - Sean Dyche.
17/18 - 14 12 12 . 36 39 -03 . 54 07 . 36.8 . 31.5 . 31.5 - Sean Dyche.
16/17 - 11 07 20 . 39 55 -16 . 40 16 . 28.9 . 18.4 . 52.6 - Sean Dyche.
EUROPA LEAGUE; 18/19 - gp stage.

FALMER years; from 2011 - seasons 7-11 13, 17/18-21/22 23/24 Prem . Seasons 1-3 5, 11/12-13/14 15/16 C'ship.
24/25 onwards - not Premier League
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Dec D 1-1 . (A) Apr D 1-1 . BHA = 11th 48pts, B = 19th 24pts - rel
22/23 - not Premier League.
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Feb L 0-3 . (A) Aug W 1-2 . . BHA = 9th 51pts, Burn = 18th 35pt - relegated.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (H) Nov D 0-0 . (A) Feb D 1-1 . . BHA = 16th 41pt, Burn = 17th 39pt.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (H) Sep D 1-1 . (A) Jul W 1-2 . . BHA = 15th 41pt, Burn = 10th 54pt. (postponed from May by Covid-19 pandemic).
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Dec L 1-0 . (H) Feb L 1-3 . .. BHA = 17th 36pt, Burn = 15th 40pt.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Dec D 0-0 . (A) Apr D 0-0 . . BHA = 15th 40pt, Burn = 7th 54pt ~ Europa League.
PREM; P12 . W0 D4 L2 . F3 A8 . W2 D3 L1 . F6 A5 . Pt10 GD-4
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 26/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20 = No fans allowed in stadium.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Seasons 1-3 5.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Dec L 0-1 . (A) Apr L 1-0 . . . . . . BHA = 10th 66pt. Burn = 13th 62pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Sep W 1-3 . (H) Feb W 1-0 . . . . BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. Burn = 11th 61pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (H) Aug W 2-0 . (A) Jan D 1-1 .. . BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, Burn = 2nd 93pt - promoted.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Nov D 1-1 . (H) Apr D 2-2 . . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, Burn = 1st 93pt - promoted.
C'ship; P8 . W2 D1 L1 . F5 A3 . W1 D2 L1 . F5 A4 . Pt12 GD+3

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 4 6-7 - 02/3 04/5-05/6 C'ship.
Championship - just how did they stay there season after season?
This grim northern club was in div2 (L1) while Albion completed their div3 (L2) home programme at Gillingham and then began the Withdean era with a 'temporary' dwelling. In 2001 Burnley and Brighton separately went up a division. In 2002 we did it again. All fixtures below took place in the Championship or equivalent.
02/3 - under Martin Hinshelwood; (A)10/8/02 W 1-3. Under Steve Coppell; (H) 28/12/02 D 2-2 . BHA = 23rd 45pts relegated, Burn = 16th 55pts.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 20/11/04 L 0-1 - burned out flicker. (A) 16/4/05 D 1-1 - we ignited after struck . . . BHA = 20th 51pts, Burn = 13th 60pts.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 24/9/05 D 1-1 - Ref robbed us. (H) 31/1/06 D 0-0 - Clarets used spoiling tactics .. BHA = 24th 38pt rel, Burn = 17th 54pt, ave as ever.
C21 total C'ship: P14 . W2 D3 L2 . F7 A6 . W2 D4 L1 . F9 A6 . Pt19 GD+4

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 2 L1, 7 7 16 19 13 17 15 13 5 C / 18 P, 8 13 11 2 C, 19 P, 1 C, 16 7 15 / 10 17 18 P, 1 C, 19 P @ 20/5/24
PREM: best = 7th - '18, worst = 19th - '15 '24 . stayed up - bottom six '17 '19 '21 . relegated - '10 '15 '22 '24 . top ten - '18 '20.
C'ship: promo - '09 '14 '16 '23 . L1: promo - '00.
past managers; Stan Ternent (1998-2004), Steve Cotterill (04-7), Owen Coyle (07-10), Brian Laws (2010), Eddie Howe (10-12), Sean Dyche (12-22),
Mike Jackson (2022), Vincent Kompany (22-24)
Prem: Burnley were not members of the elite league (created in 1992) until initially gaining promotion in 2009.
FA Cup; q-f - '03 . EFL Cup; s-f - '09 . EUROPE; finals - did not qualify in the Prem era.

C21 background - their place-name numbs the brain in an instant, probably due to dire thoughts of that M6 motorway to hell. On the south coast there is a milder climate, outstanding natural beauty of chalk downlands, easy cosmopolitan cafe feel, plus warm water for a dip. Oh, after more than a decade of strife, Brighton were granted permission to build a new stadium in 2007. Meanwhile ageing Turf Moor, with snow capped Pennine backdrop, is tinkered with at 21st century intervals - during safe and steady tier two existence. But hey the world turned following a history of baggage along Brunshaw Road - somewhere deep in a Lancashire backwater. In 08/9 almost unbelievably, Burnley got into the Premiership via p-o final versus Sheff Utd. They were quickly back down from cloud9 in time for 10/11. Clarets ended their usual Championship season in 8th place. They regained the prem in 13/14, dropped down again in 14/15 but bounced back for 16/17.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. Clarets were 10th. The 20/21 season began from mid September. They were 17th. The next term 21/22 they were 18th and relegated. Burnley bounced straight back into the Prem for 23/24. In 23/24 Burnley finished 19th and rel.

CARDIFF

C'ship record from 11/12: 6 1 C, 20 P, 11 8 12 / 2 C, 18 P, 5 8 18 21 12 C @ 4/5/24.
Prem: rel - '14 '19 . C'ship: title - '13 . runner-up - '18 . p-os - '12 '20.
STATUS; essentially a lower league & Championship club this century, City got to the Prem initially in 13/14 then 18/19.
MANAGER; tba
previously Erol Bulut (23-24), Sami Lamouchi (2023), Mark Hudson (22-23), Steve Morison (21-22), Mick McCarthy (2021), Neil Harris (19-21).
ground: City Stad 33k . nickname: Bluebirds . shirt: blue.
Covid: Welsh restrictions 27/12/21 . relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Welsh equivalent of lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3/4 @ 17/12/20.

19/20 onwards - not Premier League.
18/19 Prem - W10 D4 L24 F34 A69 GD-35 Pt34 Po18. Wins = 26.3%, Draws = 10.5%, Loss = 63.1% - Neil Warnock.
Warnock showed some ability to steer Bluebirds back to Prem membership in his mere two years there.
17/18 - not Premier League.

FALMER years; from 2011 - season8, 18/19 Prem . Sns 1-2 4-6, 11/12-12/13 14/15-16/17 C'ship.
19/20 onwards - not Premier League.
18/19 - under Chris Hughton: (A) Nov L 2-1. (H) Apr L 0-2 . BHA = 17th 36pt, CC = 18th 34pt
17/18 - not Premier League.
Prem; P2 . W0 D0 L1 . F0 A2 . W0 D0 L1 . F1 A2 . Pt0 GD-3

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Seasons 1-2 4-6.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Aug W 1-3. (H) Mar D 2-2 . . . .. BHA = 10th 66pt. CC = 6th 75pt. (p-o s-f)
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Aug D 0-0. (A) Feb W 0-2 . . . .. BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. CC = 1st 87pt promoted.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (H) Sep D 1-1. Under Chris Hughton; (A) Feb D 0-0 . BHA = 20th 47pt, CC = 11th 62pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Oct D 1-1. (A) Feb L 4-1 . . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, CC = 8th 68pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Dec D 0-0. (H) Jan W 1-0 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, CC = 12th 62pt
C'ship record: P10 . W1 D4 L0 . F5 A4 . W2 D2 L1 . F6 A5 . Pt15 GD+2

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 2-3 6-7 . 00/01 L2, 01/2 L1, 04/5-05/6 C'ship . League Cup & Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
League Two thru Championship - their cup runneth... over here.
00/1 - under Micky Adams; (A) 9/9/00 D 1-1. H 10/2/01 W 1-0 . BHA champions, CC runners-up 82pts.
01/2 - under Micky Adams; (A) 29/9/01 D 1-1. under Peter Taylor; (H) 31/1/02 W 1-0 . BHA = b2b titles, CC = 4th 83pts.
Both sides were in the Championship for 2004 - 2006.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 19/10/04 D 1-1 - they're W... (A) 12/2/05 L 2-0 - sheep-shaggers screwed us. BHA = 20th 51pts, CC = 16th 54pts.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 15/10/05 L 1-2 - levelled, couldn't hold on. (A) 22/11/05 D 1-1 - wonder goal to equalise . BHA = 24th rel, CC = 11th 60pt.
C21 total EFL record: P18 . W3 D5 L1 . F8 A6 . W2 D5 L2 . F10 A11 . Pt25 GD+1

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 21 L1, 2 L2, 4 6 L1, 13 16 11 13 12 7 / 4 4 6 1 C, 20 P, 11 8 12 2 C, 18 Prem / 5 8 18 21 12 @ 4/5/24
PREM; relegated - '14 '19 . C'ship: promo - '13 '18, p-os - '10 '11 '12 '20 . L1: promo - '03, rel - '00 . L2: promo - '01
past managers; Frank Burrows (1998-2000), Alan Cork (2000-2), Lennie Lawrence (02-5), Dave Jones (05-11), Malky Mackay (11-14), Ole Solskjaer (2014),
Russell Slade (14-16), Paul Trollope (2016), Neil Warnock (16-19), Neil Harris (19-21), Mick McCarthy (2021), Steve Morison (21-22), Mark Hudson (22-23)., Erol Bulut (23-24)
Prem: Cardiff City first joined the elite league in 13/14 after rising from lower leagues during opening decade of this century.
FA CUP; finalists - 09/10 . LEAGUE CUP; finalists - 11/12.

C21 Background - Bluebirds went up from div3 when Albion were playing home games at Gillingham. They came back down after a season at tier three, just in time to join-in with the Withdean era from Y2k. We had certain things in common, although nationality it ain't. During the nineties both clubs had a history of fellow suffering, separated by regional ambition. We'd had too many years out to grass, under-funded, exploited, mismanaged and relegated. Each core support was promised the earth; development of catchments potential and expectations, dreams, futures, ad infinitum. It took many years before some of these aspirations assumed reality.
As a third tier side again, Brighton were eventually given the nod for Falmer in 2007 to be finished for 11/12. City established in the Championship by 2008 and erstwhile decided to build on an er, athletics track. Seeing was definitely believing. They missed out on p-o form in 08/9 to tread more Taff water in level two again. But hey, in 9/10 City actually reached the p-o final. They got as far as p-o phases again in 10/11 but went out in semi-finals at their new place. Well, worry a sheep!
For 12/13, foreign owners decided to change colour of the shirt and play as Red Dragons, supposedly to enhance support in Malaysia. Yeah, we know they are as well. They were back in lev2 after one season 13/14 in the elite.
The Welsh club next regained PL status when finishing as runners up in 17/18 but went straight back down.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Cardiff took part in p-os during July. Thus the following C'ship season began from mid September. City finished short of p-os. Next term 21/22 they were 18th. Then 21st. In 23/24 City were 12th in the C'ship.

COVENTRY

C'ship record from11/12: 23 C, 15 18 17 8 23 L1 / 6 L2, 8 1 L1, 16 12 5 9 @ 4/5/24.
C'ship: rel - '12 . L1: rel - '17 . title - '20 . L2: promo - '18.
STATUS; City fell from great heights during this century and suffered much more than just playing problems on the pitch... becoming homeless.
MANAGER; Frank Lampard (2024), previously Mark Robins (17-24).
owner: Doug King . nickname: Sky Blues . shirt: light blue.
ground: Cov BS (Ricoh) Arena 32.6k owned by Mike Ashley (19-21 groundshare @ St Andrews Birmingham 29k).
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years; from 2011 - Season1. 11/12 C'ship . FA Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Nov W 2-1. (A) Dec L 2-0 . BHA = 10th 66pt. Cov = 23rd 40pt - relegated to L1
C'ship record: P2. W1 D0 L0 . F2 A1 . W0 D0 L1 . F0 A2 . Pt3 GD-1

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 4 6-7, 02/3 04/5-05/6 C'ship . FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
Championship - ricochet around the drop zone.
Sky Blues had been a regular Prem club while BHA were homeless and seemingly helpless in div3.
Albion first reached div1 (Championship) in 02/3 and all fixtures were played there versus Coventry to 2011.
02/3 - under Martin Hinshelwood; (H) 13/8/02 D 0-0 - 1st H pt. Under Steve Coppell; (A) 11/1/03 D 0-0 - d-z dog fight . BHA = 23rd 45pts rel. Cov = 20th 50pts.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 14/8/04 D 1-1 - conjured up a conclusion. (A) 2/4/05 L 2-1 - covert Refs controversy . BHA = 20th survival 51pts. Cov = 19th 52pts.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 17/9/05 D 2-2 - conceded howlers. (A) 4/2/06 L 2-0 - threw towel in . BHA = 24th rel to L1. Cov = 8th 63pt.
C21 total C'ship record: P8. W1 D3 L0 . F5 A4 . W0 D1 L3 . F1 A6 . Pt7 GD-4

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 14 19 P, 11 20 12 19 8 17 21 17 / 19 18 23 C, 15 18 17 8 23 L1, 6 L2, 8 / 1 L1, 16 12 5 9 @ 4/5/23
Prem: best = 14th, worst = 19th, relegated - '01 . EFL: best = 5th C'ship '23, worst = 6th L2 '18 . relegated - '12 C, '17 L1 . promo - '20 L1, '18 L2
COVENTRY CITY were one of the original 22 clubs in the new Premier League of 1992. They competed there throughout the nineties.
past managers; Gordon Strachan (1996-2000), Roland Nilsson (01-2), Gary McAllister (02-4), Eric Black (2004), Peter Reid (04-5), Micky Adams (05-7),
Iain Dowie (07-8), Chris Coleman (08-10), Aidy Boothroyd (10-11), Andy Thorn (11-12), Mark Robins (12-13), Steve Pressley (13-15),
Tony Mowbray (15-16), Mark Venus (16-17), Russell Slade (2017), Mark Robins (17-24),
FA Cup; q-f - '98 '09 . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; winner - '17, s-f - '13

C21 Background - some Brighton fans loved Micky Adams best, at least those of yer C21 Withdean experience. The early noughties were pleasurable then, bar an outstanding problem off the pitch. Providing a suitable modern ground, was a huge factor in overall thinking of a string of managers affected by our temporary infrastructure. Adams initially bought into the dream but baled out and was subsequently sent to Coventry. He entertained his old Board at the brand new, all singing, all dancing Ricoh Arena early in 2006 and we fans were in awe. But Adams was 'sacked' and waited for a job with prospects.
In 2007 Falmer got a green light. They say that pond-side Farm Shop will be making money hand over fist. Presumably our hands and an ex-Nimby's fist. Hey, they didn't have that facility in Sky Blue land around their concourse! Will they have the best stad one day in League1 like Leicester or Sheff Utd? In the noughties Cov were mostly not up to average at tier two. For 10/11 Sky Blues clouded over in 18th and 12 months later dropped into L1 for 12/13. The ground was sold and the club continued to decline, being relegated to L2 in 16/17 but then reaching p-os in 17/18 and promo back to L1. At end of 18/19 Sky Blues finished a way outside L1 p-os on pts.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March due to the Covid-19 crisis. Coventry were then leading the div and got made L1 champions when the season ended early. Thus the following C'ship season began from mid September. Sky blues finished lowest of the middle eight. Next term 21/22 they were 12th. Then 5th, reaching the p-o final but losing on pens. In 23/24 Coventry were 9th in the C'ship.

DERBY

C'ship record from 11/12: 12 10 3 8 5 9 / 6 6 10 21 23 C, 7 2 L1 @ 29/4/24.
C'ship: rel - '22, bottom six - '21 . p-os - '14 '16 '18 '19 . L1: promo - '24
STATUS; perennial hopers, recalling glory days of yore but never quite making that step back up.
MANAGER; Paul Warne (2022), previously Liam Rosenior (2022), Wayne Rooney (20-22), Philip Cocu (19-20) .
owner: David Clowes (Developments) . ground: Pride Park 33k . nickname: Rams . Shirt: white.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or -ve flow test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years; from 2011 - Seasons 1- 6, 11/12-16/17 Championship . FA Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Nov W 0-1. (H) Mar W 2-0 . . . . BHA = 10th 66pt. DC = 12th 64pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Oct D 0-0. (H) Jan W 2-1 . . . . . BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. DC = 10th 61pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (H) Aug L 1-2. (A) Jan L 1-0 . . . BHA = 6th 72pt. DC = 3rd 85pt. In p-o s-f we lost; (H) 1-2, (A) 4-1
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (A) Dec L 3-0. under Chris Hughton; (H) Mar W 2-0 . BHA = 20th 47pt, DC = 8th 77pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Dec D 2-2. (H) May D 1-1 . BHA = 3rd 89pt, DC = 5th 78pt - p-os
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Aug D 0-0. (H) Mar W 3-0 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, DC = 9th 67pt
C'ship record: P12 . W4 D1 L1 . F11 A4 . W1 D3 L2 . F3 A6 . Pt19 GD+4

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 4 6-7 . 02/3 04/5-05/6 C'ship . League Cup - see WE previous encounters.
Championship - playing for Pride again.
Rams were a constant Prem outfit when Albion fought to survive in the Football League. Once homecoming was achieved, Seagulls quickly flew off to bigger landing grounds. Our Withdean era fixtures took place in div1, which became the Championship in 2004.
02/3 - under Steve Coppell; (H) 16/11/02 W 1-0 - only 2nd H win. (A) 14/12/02 L 1-0 - fine line between in & out . BHA didn't escape = 23rd 45pts. DC = 18th 52pts.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 3/11/04 L 3-0 - in deep end & nose dived. (H) 5/2/05 L 2-3 - rammed it up rear end . BHA survival = 20th 51pts. DC = 4th 76pts p-os.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 6/8/05 D 1-1 - had a chance to win it. (H) 26/11/05 D 0-0 - both teams less than average . BHA = 24th 38pt, DC = 20th 50pt.
C21 total C'ship record: P18 . W5 D2 L2 . F14 A7 . W1 D4 L4 . F4 A11 . Pt24 GD0

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 16 17 19 P, 18 20 4 20 3 C, 20 P, 18 / 14 19 12 10 3 8 5 9 6 6 / 10 21 23 C, 7 2 L1 @ 4/5/24
Prem: stayed up - twice '00 '01, relegated - twice '02 '08 . C'ship: promo - '07, p-os - '05 '14 '16 '18 '19 . rel - '22 . L1: promo - '24
past managers; Jim Smith (1995-2001), Colin Todd (01-2), John Gregory (02-3), George Burley (03-5), Phil Brown (05-6), Billy Davies (06-7),
Paul Jewell (07-8), Nigel Clough (09-13), Steve McClaren (13-15), Paul Clement (15-16), Darren Wassall (2016), Nigel Pearson (2016),
Steve McClaren (16-17), Gary Rowett (17-18), Frank Lampard (18-19), Philip Cocu (19-20), Wayne Rooney (20-22), Liam Rosenior (2022)
Prem: Derby County initially joined the elite league (started in 1992) for their first spell from the 96/97 - 01/02 seasons.
FA Cup: q-f - '97 '99 . EFL Cup; s-f - '09.

C21 Info - talk about a tale of two seasons and pride coming before a fall.
In 06/7 County recorded useful stats in the Championship; W13 D6 L4 F33 A19 . W12 D3 L8 F29 A27 . Pt84 Po3.
They next won their divisional play-off final to gain a place in the elite again.
However, in 07/8 at Premiership level; W1 D5 L13 F12 A43 . W0 D3 L16 F8 A46 . Pt11 Po20. Obviously Rams were relegated back to where they came from.
You gotta search record books over less than typical top tier seasons to better those numbers, or is it actually worsen?
In Nov 08, Rams came down to W'dean and won 1-4 in LC r3 tie. By start of 10/11, Rams were one in a middle order field at second tier.
They only made 19th at end of that season. But in 13/14, 15/16, 17/18 & 18/19 they qualified for play offs. Finalists latest.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Derby finished outside p-os in July. Thus the following C'ship season began from mid September. Rams stayed up on the last day with a very late equaliser. During Sept of the following campaign, Derby were docked -12pts for going into administration. In Nov they got a further -9pt penalty for irregularities. At end of 21/22 they were 23rd and relegated to L1. Then 7th. In 23/24 Derby were L1 runners up.

HULL

C'ship record from 11/12: 8 2 C, 16 18 P, 4 C, 18 P / 18 13 24 C, 1 L1, 19 15 7 @ 4/5/24.
Prem: bottom six - '14 . rel - '15 '17 . C'ship: promo - '13 '16 . rel - '20 . L1: title - '21.
STATUS; sometimes able to gain access to the Prem fixture list but unable to consolidate permanency and now a lower league club again.
MANAGER; tba
previously Tim Walter (2024), Liam Rosenior (22-24), Andy Dawson (interim), Shota Arveladze (2022), Grant McCann (19-22) .
Ground: KCOM Stad 25.5k . Nickname: Tigers . Shirt: tan & black stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years; from 2011. Seasons 1-2 5 . 11/12-12/13 15/16 C'ship . FA Cup see - FY tab, previous encounters.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Oct D 0-0. (A) Mar D 0-0 . . . . . . BHA = 10th 66pt. HC = 8th 68pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Aug L 1-0. (H) Feb W 1-0 . . . . . BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. HC = 2nd 79pt - promo.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Sep W 1-0. (A) Feb D 0-0 . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, HC = 4th 83pt - p-o winners.
C'ship record: P6 . W2 D1 L0 . F2 A0 . W0 D2 L1 . F0 A1 . Pt9 GD+1

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1-2 7 . 99/00-00/01 L2, 05/6 C'ship.
Championship - we've been there and back.
Would you believe Tigers were merely a div3 club at old Boothferry Park when Seagulls were flying off to Gillingham every fortnight. Brighton had their homecoming in 1999 and Micky Adams started the first Withdean era revolution. It all seemed straight forward as B'fans flocked to an open-air athletics track. But reality bites, especially oop north. The following term BHA gathered momentum to become an unstopable force, also up on the Humber estuary. By 2005 Albion were suffering Falmer delays but City had by then got their brand spanking new KC stadium.
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (H) 31/8/99 W 3-0. (A) 5/2/00 L 2-0 . . BHA = 11th 67pts, HC = 14th 59pts.
00/1 - under Micky Adams; (A) 6/10/00 W 0-2. (H) 10/3/01 W 3-0 .. BHA = 1st champions. HC = 6th 74pts, p-os.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 20/8/05 L 2-0 - chances, not any parity. (H) 16/12/05 W 2-1 - celebrate spectacular goals . BHA = 24th relegated. HC = 18th 52pt.
C21 total EFL record: P12 . W5 D1 L0 . F11 A1 . W1 D2 L3 . F2 A5 . Pt21 GD+7

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 14 6 11 13 2 L2, 2 L1, 18 21 3 C, 17 / 19 P, 11 8 2 C, 16 18 P, 4 C, 18 P, 18 13 / 24 C, 1 L1, 19 15 7 @ 4/5/24
Prem: stayed up - '09 '14, rel - '10 '15 '17 . C'ship: promo - '08 '13 '16, rel - '20 . L1: promo - '05 '21 . L2: promo - '04.
past managers; Warren Joyce (1998-2000), Brian Little (00-2), Jan Molby (2002), Peter Taylor (02-6), Phil Parkinson (2006), Phil Brown (07-10),
Iain Dowie (2010), Nigel Pearson (10-11), Nicky Barmby (11-12), Steve Bruce (12-16), Mike Phelan (2016), Marco Silva (2017), Leonid Slutsky (2017),
Nigel Adkins (17-19), Grant McCann (19-22), Shota Arveladze (2022), Liam Rosenior (22-24),Tim Walter (2024)
Prem: Hull City initially joined the elite league (started in 1992) for the 08/09 season.
FA Cup; finalists - '14 . EFL Cup; s-f - '17 . Europa League; p-o rnd - 14/15.

C21 Background - In summer of 2005, Brighton fans went to see their heroes at super duper KC stadium and Peter Taylor showed us with gestures what we were missing. It was also not lost on our twice Publicly Inquired that City's place was the constituency of Rt Hon MP, Deputy PM and Secretary of State, J Prescott esq. That season proved to be long, hard and failing by May '06 and B'ton bombed. We wished another lower league double-promo side well in trying to consolidate at tier two. God only knows you need half decent gates for a kick-off. Anyway by 07/8 Hull were in the proverbial play-offs. Come 08/9 they competed to gain a place in the Premiership - fairy tale ending by staying up or what? Er no, 09/10 was a relegation year but the dosh was good. For 10/11, Tigers only made 11th place in the Championship. They were in the Prem again for 13/14, 14/15 & 16/17 but then relegated to the Championship once more. At end of 18/19 Tigers were merely middle order at best.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Hull finished bottom of the C'ship and were relegated in July. Therefore the following L1 season started in September. City were promoted back to lev2 as champs in May '21. Next term 21/22 they were 19th. Then 15th. In 23/24 Hull were 7th in the C'ship.

LEEDS

C'ship record from 11/12: 14 13 15 15 13 7 / 13 3 1 C, 9 17 19 P, 3 C @ 4/5/24.
Prem: top ten - '21, bottom six - '22, rel - '23 . second season syndrome: '21 9th, '22 17th .
C'ship: best = 1st, worst = 15th . promo - '20 . p-os - '19 '24 . top half - '17 .
STATUS; one time big club but serial underachievers this century with knobs on... until 2020.
MANAGER; Daniel Farke (2023), previously Sam Allardyce (2023), Javi Gracia (2023), Jesse Marsch (22-23), Marcelo Bielsa (18-22) .
owner: Andrea Radrizzani 450m . ground: Elland Road 38k . nickname: Whites . shirt: white.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20 = No fans allowed in stadium.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . Pt Po . . . W% . D% . L%
23/24 onwards - not Premier League
22/23 - 07 10 21 . 48 78 -30 .. 31 19 . 18.4 . 26.3 . 55.2 - Sam Allardyce, Javi Gracia & Jesse Marsch
21/22 - 09 11 18 . 42 79 -37 . 38 17 . . 23.6 . 28.9 . 47.3 - Jesse Marsch & Marcelo Bielsa
20/21 - 18 05 15 . 62 54 08 .. 59 09 . . 47.3 . 13.1 . 39.4 - Marcelo Bielsa.
17/18 - 19/20 not Premier League.

FALMER years; from 2011 - seasons 10-11, 20/21-21/22 Prem . Seasons 1-6, 11/12-16/17 C'ship.
23/24 onwards - not Premier League
22/23 - Graham Potter: (H) Aug W 1-0 . Roberto de Zerbi (A) Mar D 2-2 . BHA = 6th 62pts, LU = 19th 31pt ~ rel
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Nov D 0-0 . (A) May D 1-1 . BHA = 9th 51pts, LU = 17th 38pt.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (A) Jan W 0-1. (H) May W 2-0 . BHA = 16th 41pt, LU = 9th 59pt.
17/18 - 19/20 not Premier League.
Prem: P6 . W2 D1 L0 . F3 A0 . W1 D2 L0 . F4 A3 . Pt12 GD4

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - seasons 1-6.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Sep D 3-3. (A) Feb W 1-2 . . . . BHA = 10th 66pt. LU = 14th 61pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Nov D 2-2. (A) Apr W 1-2 . . . .. BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. LU = 13th 61pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (A) Aug L 2-1. (H) Feb W 1-0 . . BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, LU = 15th 57pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hypia; (A) Aug W 0-2. Under Chris Hughton; (H) Feb W 2-0 . BHA = 20th 47pt, LU = 15th 56pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Oct W 1-2. (H) Feb W 4-0 . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, LU = 13th 59pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Dec W 2-0. (A) Mar L 2-0 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, LU = 7th 75pt
C'ship record: P12. W4 D2 L0 . F14 A5 . W4 D0 L2 . F9 A7 . Pt26 GD+11

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 6-7 9-11, 04/5-05/6 C'ship, 07/8-09/10 L1
Championship & League One - looking on the bright side in passing.
Leeds United fell from the Prem of the new millennium and bottomed out in tier three football with likes of Albion.
In 2004 we'd got back to level2 via an away day in Wales. Whites were ex-big boys but Albion could compete.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (H) Oct W 1-0. (A) Jan D 1-1 .. BHA = 20th 51pt.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (A) Sep D 3-3. (H) Jan W 2-1 . BHA = 24th 38pt, LU = play-offs.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) Oct L 0-1. (A) Mar D 0-0 . .. BHA = 7th 69pt missed play-offs, LU got beat in the Wembley final.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (A) Oct L 3-1. (H) Jan L 0-2 . . . BHA = 16th 52pt under Russ Slade, LU = p-o s-f.
9/10 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Nov L 0-3. (A) Feb D 1-1 . . . .. BHA = 13th 59pts, LU = 2nd 86pts ~ auto promo.
C21 total EFL record: P22. W6 D2 L3 . F17 A12 . W4 D4 L3 . F15 A15 . Pt36 GD+5

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 3 4 5 15 19 P, 14 5 24 C, 5 4 / 2 L1, 7 14 13 15 15 13 7 13 3 / 1 C, 9 17 19 P, 3 C record @ 4/5/24.
Prem: top four - '00 '01, top six - '02, top ten '21 . stayed up - '03 '22, relegated - '04 '23.
C'ship: promo - '20, p-os - '06 '19 '24, rel - '07 . L1: promo - '10, p-os - '08 '09.
LEEDS UNITED were one of the original 22 clubs to play in the new Premier League of 1992. They stayed there continuously until 2004.
past managers; David O'Leary (1998-2002), Terry Venables (02-3), Peter Reid (2003), Eddie Gray (03-4), Kevin Blackwell (04-6), Dennis Wise (06-8),
Gary McAllister (2008), Simon Grayson (08-12), Neil Warnock (12-13), Brian McDermott (13-14), Dave Hockaday (2014), Darko Milanic (2014),
Neil Readfern (14-15), Uwe Rosler (2015), Steve Evans (15-16), Garry Monk (2017), Paul Heckingbottom (2018), Thomas Christiansen (17-18),
Marcelo Bielsa (18-22), Jesse Marsch (22-23), Javi Gracia (2023), Sam Allardyce (2023)
FA Cup; q-f - '96 '98 '03 . EFL Cup; finalists - '96, q-f - '13, '17.
Champions League; qual - '93, s-f - '01 . UEFA Cup; s-f - '00, rnds - '96 '99 '02 '03.

C21 Info - Leeds were docked 15pts for entering administration but made a winning start to 07/8. "The only achievement thus far was that by reaching 12th place, it meant you don't have to wait for the second page on Teletext to see where we are in the table." This line from 2007 did not originate with Dean Wilkins (as he pursued a second year of Brighton & Hove Albion management) but from Dennis Wise at Leeds, er, now United, in League1. When still a baby-faced boss in the Championship, Dennis 'the menace' may have wondered, like his initial DW counterpart in Sussex by the sea, if he really was cut out for football leadership. He'd previously had a rough ride from relegation-threatened 'supporters' at shell-shocked Elland road.
Wise also said, 'I have a nice rapport with them at the moment. Last year it was difficult for us'. Ken Bates his illustrious Chairman, remarked that Yorkshiremen have big mouths, along with short arms and deep pockets. That was a bit rich, coming from a master schemer not known for putting funny money where it might easily be eaten. Allegedly he propositioned Wise to, 'come up north and forget them old Village days'. He aimed to cross the great divide and those West Riding types were gonna pay for it. The ex-Chelsea southern 'softy' apparently then retorted, 'ok!'.
Incidentally prior to LUFC as we know it, a once poor Charles Dickens suggested of Leeds, 'you must like it very much or not at all'. Albi Hove saw this famous writer's quote and quipped, 'I thought he was a pukka Gillingham fan and it's ironical they just loved taking a first point off United this season. They'd got well hammered in Dickens time when playing up at Holbeck, to a side personally funded by local Victorian mill owners rather than a speculating, latter day, nationwide, multi-millionaire property developer!'. By the way, Bates was Chairman of Oldham when Wise wasn't quite yet conceived, before snapping up Chelsea cheap, then embarking on a 'save the Bridge' campaign and investing in a money-spinning hotel complex at the SW London ground. Bates watched Wise's post-Chelsea career and knew the former Millwall player-manager and Southampton caretaker was keen to go other places.
Micky Adams had also parted company with the combative little midfielder at Leicester, on occasion of a pre-season scrap among his squad. Adams installed him again at Coventry and don't bother asking Brighton fans about being wise after those proverbial events at brand new Ricoh Arena.
Leeds considered themselves a big Pike in a small pond and were readily consuming smaller fish out of their league. Brighton at least hoped to be a proven top ten Championship club at Falmer over the next decade, with aspirations of following City up-stream into a Premiership lake. All sorts of glory hunters, party goers and hangers-on will jump on these rolling bandwagons again and Bates and Knight have enough business nous to encourage this orgy ad-infinitum. Bates eventually transformed Stamford Bridge before doing a mega-deal with foreigners and Knight had a huge hospitality 'A list' of financial big-hitters to work through.
Meanwhile W & W had their directors box backing, who continued to promote 'every confidence in the manager' - as long as they produced er, promotion. Micky Adams remarked, after hiring and during Wise's Sky Blue period, 'I can understand lesser managers than myself would not have done it. But I don't have to worry about my job because I'm a better manager'. Well, that old football world certainly turned some and while one bloke ended up awile in lowly Essex as assistant, the other got lucky. Bates installed a 'cor blimey' Londoner in a 40k capacity venue oop north, with massive stands that were three quarters filled. Knight alternatively needed his man from Middlesex and favourite 90's player, to re-create glory years pre-Falmer, beginning with a record attendance at Withdean for Whites visit. Btw it all ended in tears. Go to Characters - Adams, Wilkins, Poyet and BHA W'dean managers.
For 10/11 back in the Championship, Whites got to 7th and missed p-o phases. In years to 17/18 LUFC only once more got as near to p-os (16/17) and remain serial underachievers. At end of 18/19 Whites got 3rd place in the Championship but got beaten in p-o s-fs.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during mid March '20. In the event, after June restart, Leeds won the 19/20 Championship title during July. Thus the following Prem season began from mid September. United were 9th. The next term 21/22 they stayed up in 17th. A year later finished 19th and rel. In 23/24 Leeds were 3rd in the C'ship, losing the p-o final.

LUTON

C'ship record from 11/12: 5, 7, 1 NL, 8 11 4 / 2 L2, 1 L1, 19, 12, 6, 3 C, 18 P @ 20/5/24.
rel - '24 Prem . promo - '14 NL, '18 L2, '19 L1, '23 C . p-os - '12 NL, '17 L2, '22 C.
STATUS; fell from level2 thru lower divs into non-league but went on a long way back to previous days of glory and want more. But... no
MANAGER; Rob Edwards (2022), previously Nathan Jones (20-22) .
Ground: Kenilworth Road 10k . Nickname: Hatters . Shirt: orange.

Falmer years - from 2017, 23-24 season13
Seasn . W D L . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 onwards - not Premier League
23/24 - 06 08 24 . 52 85 -33 . . 26 18 . 15.7 . 21.0 . 63.1 - Rob Edwards
17/18 - 22/23 not Premier League.

FALMER years; from 2017 - Season13 23/24 Prem.
24/25 onwards - not Premier League.
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Aug W 4-1 . (A) Jan L 4-0 . BHA = 11th 48pts, LT = 18th 26pts - rel
17/18 - 22/23 not Premier League.
Prem: P2 . W1 D0 L0 . F4 A1 . W0 D0 L1 . F0 A4 . Pt3 GD-1
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3/4 @ 17/12/20 = no fans.
Falmer Years; Championship from 2011 to 2017 - no meetings.

WITHDEAN era - from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 5 7 9 . 03/4 L1, 05/6 C'ship, 07/8 L1 . League Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
Championship & League One - stuck up the M1 looking for a home.
03/4 - under Steve Coppell; (H) Aug W 2-0 - luck & the ludicrous. Under Mark McGhee; (A) Feb L 2-0 - no luck & still ludicrous . BHA p-os but LT missed the cut.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (A) Dec L 3-0. (H) Mar D 1-1 . BHA relegated, LT mid table finishers.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) Nov W 3-1. (A) Apr W 1-2 to send LT down. BHA missed play-offs though.
C21 EFL record; P6 . W2 D1 L0 . F6 A2 . W1 D0 L2 . F2 A6 . Pt10 GD0

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 13 22 L1, 2 L2, 9 10 1 L1, 10 22 C, 24 L1, 24 L2 / 4 3 5 7 1 NL, 8 11 4 2 L2, 1 L1 / 19 12 6 3 C, 18 P @ 20/5/24
Prem: best/worst = '24 . C'ship: best = 3rd '23, worst = 22nd '07, relegated - '07.
NL: promo - '14 . L2: promo - '02, '18, p-os - '17, rel - '09 . L1: promo - '19, rel - '01 '08.
past managers; John Still (13-14), Hakan Hayrettin (2014), John Still (14-15), Nathan Jones (16-19), Mick Hartford (2019),
Graeme Jones (19-20), Mick Hartford (interim 2020), Nathan Jones (20-22)
Prem: Luton progressed from the 5th tier at NL level right up to the Prem in just over a decade from 2012 to 2023
EFL Trophy; winners - 08/09.

C21 Info - Kenilworth Road ground from outside views flatters to deceive. Drive down the link road to town from the M1 and it towers above like a pukka stadium. Trouble is it's squeezed in by housing and a tad lopsided and squat. Plans were floated for a new place at or near J10, J11 and latterly J12. It always seemed to run into trouble from Nimby jobsworth councils. State planners quashed one initially and as one-time director Eric Morecambe said, 'not a lot of people know that'. Administration burned local curry 'pie in the sky' proposals. Town also had a 30pt deduction slapped on for 08/9 when under a new board at lg2 - choker! They dropped into non-league but won the JPT trophy on route. In 9/10 Hatters got to play-offs in Blue Square Prem. There was crowd trouble to boot. For 10/11 there was more pain but no gain, when Town lost the p-o final on penalties. In 11/12 they reached p-os again (5th). But failed to get there for 12/13. In 13/14 Hatters ran away with the non-league div. By 16/17 they got a p-o place in L2 and were again promoted at end of 17/18. Town finished 18/19 as L1 Champions.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Luton finished in lower order in July. Thus the following C'ship season began from mid September. Town completed exactly mid table. Next term 21/22 they took part in p-os. Then 3rd, winning the C'ship p-o final on pens to reach the Prem. In 23/24 LT finished 18th.

MIDDLESBROUGH

C'ship record from 11/12: 7 16 12 4 2 C, 19 P / 5 7 17 10 7 4 8 @ 4/5/24.
C'ship: promo - '16 . p-os - '15 '18 '23 . Prem: rel - '17.
STATUS; flirted with regaining Prem membership but now appear to be a borderline case at best, lower order at worst.
MANAGER; Michael Carrick (2022), previously Leo Percovich (caretaker), Chris Wilder (21-22), Neil Warnock (20-21) .
ground: Riverside 34k . nickname: Boro . shirt: red.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years; from 2011 - Seasons 1-5, 11/12-15/16 C'ship . FA Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Dec L 1-0. (H) Mar D 1-1 . . . . BHA = 10th 66pt. Boro = 7th 70pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Oct L 0-1. (A) Apr W 0-2 . . . .. BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. Boro = 16th 59pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (A) Dec W 0-1. (H) Mar L 0-2 . BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, Boro = 12th 64pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (H) Oct L 1-2. under Chris Hughton; (A) May D 0-0 . BHA = 20th 47pt, Boro = 4th 85pt (p-os).
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Dec L 0-3. (A) May D 1-1 . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, Boro = 2nd 89pt promoted runners up.
C'ship; P10 . W0 D1 L4 . F2 A9 . W2 D2 L1 . F4 A2 . GD-5 Pt9
Withdean era; from 1999 to 2011 - no league fixtures. EFL Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 12 14 12 11 11 7 14 12 13 19 P / 11 12 7 16 12 4 2 C, 19 P, 5 7 / 17 10 7 4 8 C @ 4/5/24
Prem: best = 7th '05, worst = 19th '09 '17 . top ten - '05, relegated - '09 '17 . C'ship: promo - '16, p-os - '15 '18 '23.
MIDDLESBROUGH were one of the original 22 clubs to play in the new Premier League of 1992.
They also competed there in 95/96, 96/97 then from 98/99 continuously until 08/09.
past managers; Bryan Robson (1991-2001), Steve McClaren (01-6), Gareth Southgate (06-9), Gordon Strachan (09-10), Tony Mowbray (10-13),
Aitor Karanka (13-17), Steve Agnew (2017), Gary Monk (2017), Tony Pulis (17-19), Jonathan Woodgate (19-20), Neil Warnock (20-21), Chris Wilder (21-22)
FA Cup; finalists - '97, s-f - '02 '06, q-f - '17 . EFL Cup; winners - '04, finalists - '97 '98 q-f - '00 '13 . UEFA Cup; finalists - '06, last 16 - '05.

C21 Info - Boro hoped to rule in the north-east. Hey, they only went down to the Championship in a fellow tits-up with Newcastle during 08/9. In 9/10 Boro were left short on points outside play-offs. For 10/11 they finished 12th at level two. But finally made the Prem at end of 15/16, only to return immediately next year. In 17/18 Boro were once more in play-offs, just missing k-o phases again in 18/19.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Boro finished in lower mid table in July. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September. Boro were just top ten at the end. Next term 21/22 they were 7th. Then 4th. In 23/24 Boro were 8th in the C'ship.

MILLWALL

C'ship record from 11/12: 16 20 19 22 C, 4 6 L1 / 8 21 8 11 9 8 13 @ 4/5/24.
C'ship: bottom six - '13 '14 '19 . rel - '15 . L1: promo - '17 . p-os - '16.
STATUS; a regular second tier outfit who drift into lower league on occasion but seem to have bounce back dna.
MANAGER; Neil Harris (2024)
previously Joe Edwards (23-24), Gary Rowett (19-23).
ground: The Den 20k . nickname: Lions . shirt: dark blue.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20 = no fans.

FALMER years; from 2011 - Seasons 1-4, 11/12-14/15 C'ship . FA Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Oct D 1-1. (H) Feb D 2-2 . . . . . . BHA = 10th 66pt, Millwall = 16th 57pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Sep W 1-2. (H) Dec D 2-2 . . . . . BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. Millwall = 20th 56pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (H) Aug D 1-1. (A) Mar W 0-1 . . . BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, Millwall = 19th 48pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (H) Dec L 0-1. Under Chris Hughton; (A) Mar D 0-0 . BHA = 20th 47pt, Millwall = 22nd 41pt, relegated.
C'ship record: P8 . W0 D3 L1 . F5 A6 . W2 D2 L0 . F4 A2 . Pt11 GD+1

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 4 6-11 . 02/3 04/5 05/6 C'ship, 06/7-09/10 L1 . League Cup & Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
Championship & League One - life with the Lions.
Millwall turn out at the Den in SE16, alongside the Brighton line to London Bridge. It's one stop short and not a million miles from Sussex, so often was regarded as an Xmas or Easter local derby. Originally Millwall Rovers played north of the Thames on Isle of Dogs. However they ended up in south-side Bermondsey and stayed. A move from old to new Den in 1993 gave them a best ever season in div1. After slipping back to div2 for five years, Mark McGhee became manager and took Lions up as champions in 2001. Brighton next season followed Millwall into the 2002 Championship.
02/3 - under Martin Hinshelwood; (A) L 1-0. Under Steve Coppell; (H) W 1-0 . BHA = 23rd relegated, M'wall = 9th, tended to be middle order.
That single goal score was repeated again and again during Albion replacement boss Coppell's unlucky attempt to establish initially at higher standard.
Mark McGhee had come to us next in 2003 and got BHA straight back into the Championship for 2004 and managed to hold a place there.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (A) L 2-0. (H) W 1-0 . . BHA = 20th, M'wall = 10th.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (H) L 1-2. (A) W 0-2 . . BHA = 24th, M'wall = 22nd both relegated to League1.
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) L 0-1. (A) W 0-1 . . BHA = 18th, M'wall = 10th.
Also that year Brighton edged past Millwall in JPT quarter-finals, on a night of capital city sudden-death penalty shoot-out.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) W 3-0. (A) L 3-0 . . BHA = 7th, M'wall = 17th.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (H) Nov W 4-1. Under caretaker; (A) Feb W 0-1 . BHA stayed up, M'wall lost p-o final.
09/10 - Under Russ Slade; (A) Aug D 1-1. under Gus Poyet; (H) Jan L 0-1 . BHA = 13th 59pts, M'wall = 3rd 85pts p-os. Better luck this time too.
C21 total EFL record: P22 . W4 D3 L4 . F15 A11 . W5 D3 L3 . F9 A9 . Pt33 GD+4

EFL from 99/00: 5 1 L1, 4 9 10 10 23 C, 10 17 5 / 3 L1), 9 16 20 19 22 C, 4 6 L1, 8 21 / 8 11 9 8 13 @ 4/5/24
C'ship: best = 4th '02, worst = 23rd '06 . top half - 8 times, stayed up - 3 times, relegated - '06 '14 . L1: promo - '01 '10 '17
past managers; Keith Stevens (1998-2000), Mark McGhee (2000-3), Dennis Wise (03-5), Steve Claridge (2005), Colin Lee (2005), David Tuttle (05-6),
Nigel Spackman (2006), Willie Donachie (06-7), Kenny Jackett (07-13), Steve Lomas (2013), Ian Holloway (13-15), Neil Harris (15-19), Adam Barrett (interim 2019), Gary Rowett (19-23), Joe Edwards (23-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; finalists - '04, s-f - '13, q-f - '17 '19 . League Trophy; finalists - '99. s-f - '16, q-f - '07 . UEFA Cup; rnds - '05.

C21 Info - we went there a lot during the Withdean era, which also brought mixed memories flooding back of previous manager Mark McGhee. He went, in the year 2000 to Millwall and in that new beginning, created heaven and then it became hell. He took them up to division 1 and on to play-offs but crowd trouble meant imposed restrictions at the Den, when sky high gates fell to meagre on rocky earth. McGhee was under enforced gas pressure, as imposed Premiership impossibilities simmered on a low rear burner. The following season, he moved down to Brighton and took us back into the Championship alongside Millwall again. Both clubs later dropped into familiar League 1 surroundings and McGhee was once more feeling pressurised.
Dick Knight appointed Mark McGhee in 2003, hoping he could make new city boys Brighton a regular Championship side, like he had with our neighbours in the capital and one enduring life with the Lions. Our new manager responded with a defensive, 'there is no magic wand'. This no nonsense Glaswegian had a very broad playing and managing experience, also saying, 'I don't want to be known as a Second Division specialist'. McGhee arrived here after long deliberation and not as a knee jerk reaction to wanting a job. By own admission, he was prepared to give 100pc but only signed for two years initially, as a sort of pre-nuptial honeymoon period.
Those opening games of 03/4 at lesser standard for our gritty Scots Boss were, in footy speak a 'mare. He added to the squad immediately and held a doctrine of blooding young players considered of pro ability. His aim was to finish in the top two. It didn't happen quite that way but a prominent Youth Policy flourished from 04/5 during two subsequent years in the Championship. However establishment there stalled, as things went badly wrong towards that disappointing end to 05/6 season. Even a 1st of April win at lowly Millwall was merely celebrated as another bizarre event, although it could be seen just what youth, pace, enthusiasm and commitment might eventually achieve. Early in 06/7 McGhee was moved on in favour of youth coach Dean Wilkins, whose first match was actually at Millwall. By bizarre coincidence, we were also managerless again at the Den fixture for 08/9 - see Micky Adams. For 10/11 Lions got to 9th in the Championship. The Bermondsey outfit dropped back into L1 for 15/16 but regained C status for 17/18 via the p-o final - subsequently ending there in 8th. At end of 18/19 it was a different story, just above the d-z.
Lions hosted Seagulls in March 2019 for an FA Cup QF tie shown live on tv.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Millwall finished outside p-os in July. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September. Lions just got into top half at the end. Next term 21/22 they were 9th. Then 8th. In 23/24 Millwall were 13th in the C'ship.

NORWICH

C'ship record from 11/12: 12 11 18 P, 3 C, 19 P, 8 / 14 1 C, 20 P, 1 C, 20 P, 13 6 C @ 4/5/24.
Prem: rel - '14 '16 '20 '22 . C'ship: title - '19 '21 . promo - '15.
STATUS; considered a Prem outfit just marking time when in level2... or is it vice versa? . Second season syndrome: 11/12 - 12th then 12/13 - 11th.
MANAGER; Johannes Hoff Thorup (2024)
previously David Wagner (23-24), Dean Smith (21-22), Daniel Farke (17-21) .
Ground: Carrow Road 27k . Nickname: Canaries . Shirt: yellow.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 26/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans.

Seasn . W D L . . . . F A GD . . Pt Po . . W% . D% . L%
22/23 onwards - not Premier League.
21/22 - 05 07 26 . 23 84 -61 . 22 20 . 13.1 . 18.4 . 68.4 - Dean Smith & Daniel Farke . Relegated.
20/21 - not Premier League.
19/20 - 05 06 27 . 26 75 -49 . 21 20 . 13.1 . 15.7 . 71.0 - Daniel Farke, finish 25/7/20. Relegated
17/18 - 18/19 not Premier League.

FALMER Years; from 2011 - seasons 9 11, 19/20 21/22 Prem . Sns 4 6, 14/15 16/17 C'ship.
22/23 onwards - not Premier League.
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Apr . D 0-0 (A) Oct D 0-0 . BHA = 9th 51pts, NC = 20th 22pts - rel.
20/21 - not Premier League.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (H) Nov W 2-0. (A) Jul W 0-1 . BHA = 15th 41pt, NC = 20th 21pt relegated. (postponed in Apr by Covid-19 pandemic).
17/18 - 18/19 not Premier League.
Prem: P4 . W1 D1 L0 . F2 A0 . W1 D1 L0 . F1 A0 . Pt8 GD+3

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Seasons 4 6.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (A) Nov D 3-3. Under Chris Hughton; (H) Apr L 0-1 . BHA = 20th 47pt, NC = 3rd 86pt - promo.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Oct W 5-0. (A) Apr L 2-0 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, NC = 8th 70pt.
C'ship record: P4 . W1 D0 L1 . F5 A1 . W0 D1 L1 . F3 A5 . Pt4 GD+2

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 4 7 11 . 02/3 05/6 C'ship, 09/10 L1 . FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
Championship & League One - does Delia still cut the mustard?
Canaries were a typical middle order div1 club during Seagulls rise from div3 early in the Withdean era.
By 2002 Brighton joined some quality opposition in what was next called the Championship.
02/3 - under Martin Hinshelwood; (H) 17/8/02 L 0-2 - our first loss. Under Steve Coppell; (A) 26/12/02 W 0-1 - our first away win . BHA = 23rd relegated. NC = 8th.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 1/10/05 L 1-3 - too big a gulf. (A) 14/2/06 L 3-0 - luck and love deserted . BHA = bottom - rel, NC = 8th.
9/10 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Nov L 4-1 - oh no! (H) Feb L 1-2 - oh yes!! . BHA = 13th 59pts, NC = 1st champions 95pts.
C21 total EFL record: P10 . W1 D0 L4 . F7 A8 . W1 D1 L3 . F5 A12 . Pt7 GD-8

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 12 15 6 8 1 C, 19 P, 9 16 17 22 C / 1 L1, 2 C, 12 11 18 P, 3 C, 19 P, 8 14 1 C / 20 P, 1 C, 20 P, 13 6 C @ 4/5/24 .
Prem: relegated - '05 '14 '16 '20 '22 . C'ship: promo - '04 '11 '15 '19 '21, p-os - '02, rel - '09 . L1: promo - '10.
Prem: NORWICH CITY were one of the original 22 clubs to play in the new Premier League of 1992. They were relegated to Div1 (Championship) in 94/95.
past managers; Bruce Rioch (1998-2000), Bryan Hamilton (2000), Nigel Worthington (00-6), Peter Grant (06-7), Glenn Roeder (07-9), Bryan Gunn (2009),
Paul Lambert (09-12), Chris Hughton (12-14), Neil Adams (2014), Alex Neil (15-17), Alan Irvine (2017), Daniel Farke (17-21), Dean Smith (21-22), David Wagner (23-24).
FA Cup: no finals. q-f - '20 . EFL Cup: q-f - '95, '96, '13 . League Trophy: s-f - '10.

C21 Info - Canaries did get to the Prem once before, when Albion regained tier-two status in 04/5. Delia verbally burnt the cakes but it was all part of promoting a winter collection for catering at Carrow Road. In 06/7 Norwich were barely mid table. In 07/8 they merely repeated the feat, possibly as something of a Championship diet plan.
For 08/9 they went from frying pan to pot boiler, in fire of League1. In 10/11 Canaries felt the inferno of Championship campaigns and finished runner-up.
The East Anglian side lasted 3 seasons in the Prem but dropped off their perch in 13/14. And then again in 15/16. At end of 18/19 Canaries were champions of lev2.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during March '20. City were duly relegated after June restart by early July. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September. Canaries won promo back to the Prem by mid April. '21, finishing their campaign as champions in May. The next term 21/22 they were bottom and relegated again. Then 13th. In 23/24 Norwich were 6th in the C'ship.

OXFORD

C'ship record from 11/12: 9 9 8 13 2 L2, 8 16 12 4 6 8 19 5 L1 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '24 L1, '16 L2 . p-os - '20 '21 L1.
STATUS; a club that had known better standards of football prior to turn of the century. Lower league at best now.
MANAGER; Des Buckingham (2023)
previously Liam Manning (2023), Karl Robinson (18-23).
ground: Kassam Stad 12.5k . nickname: Us . shirt: yellow.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans . Tier 4 @ 26/12/20 = no fans.

Falmer years: from 2011 - no league fixtures. League Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
Withdean era: from 1999 to 2011 - no meetings.

NL/EFL from 99/00: 20 24 L1, 21 8 9 15 23 L2, 2 9 7 / 3 NL, 12 9 9 8 13 2 L2, 8 16 12 / 4 6 8 19 5 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 4th L1, worst = 9th conf . promo - '10 NL, '16 L2, '24 L1 . rel - '01 L1, '06 L2.
past managers; Micky Lewis (1999-2000), David Kemp (00-1), Ian Atkins (01-4), Graham Rix (2004), Ramon Diaz (04-5), Brian Talbot (05-6),
Darren Patterson (06-8), Jim Smith (06-7), Chris Wilder (08-13), Michael Appleton (14-17), Pep Clotet (17-18), Karl Robinson (18-23)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; finalists - '16, '17, s-f - '13.

C21 Info - while Albion struggled at gory Goldstone and gruesome Gillingham grounds, United were in div1 (Championship) of '96-'99 (17, 12, 23).
We didn't meet U's at Withdean in the noughties coz BHA were promoted from div3 (L2) as Oxford went the other way in 2001 from div2 (L1). After many seasons at lowest tier, including a period playing non-league, Utd were eventually promoted back to L1 as runners-up in 15/16. At end of 18/19 U's made midtable.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March due to the Covid-19 crisis. Oxford were then in 4th place and took part in p-os during July, being beaten in the final. The next L1 season began in September. U's reached p-os. The following term 21/22 they were shy of p-os. Then 19th. In 23/24 Oxford won the L1 p-o final.

PLYMOUTH

C'ship record from 11/12: 21 21 10 7 5 2 L2, 7 21 L1, 3 L2, 18 7 1 L1, 21 C @ 4/5/24.
recent promo - '23 L1, '17 '20 L2 . rel - '19 L1 . p-os - '16 L2.
STATUS; always potential for level2 given the club's regional situation but it's never quite so straightforward is it?
MANAGER; Wayne Rooney (2024)
previously Ian Foster (2024), Steven Schumacher (21-23), Ryan Lowe (19-21) .
ground: Home Park 18k . nickname: Pilgrims . shirt: green.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 31/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era - from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1-2 5-7 12 . 99/00-00/01 L2, 03/4-05/6, 10/11 L1 . FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
Leagues One & Two - wanted a Sound prospect.
Argyle were a club that had a half decent catchment area like Albion. They seemed to fall on hard times when we also had earlier and rise in corresponding fashion to tier two. Seagulls kicked off the Withdean era in div3 (L2) with a remit to hit the heights in conjunction with Falmer dreams. Adams bought Zamora for 100k and a revolution gathered pace, pausing in Devon for a promo party. Two seasons afterwards these two potential Championship 'heavy-weights' met again, although in div2 (L1), trying to resurrect and keep the dream alive. But it proved quite tough for teams trying to consolidate after reaching higher level.
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (A) 5/9/99 D 3-3 - attacking play or what? (H) 12/2/00 D 1-1 - Zamora the scorer . BHA = 11th 67pts, PA = 12th 66pts - dual mediocrity.
00/01 - under Micky Adams; (H) 24/10/00 W 2-0 - Zamora got one. (A) 14/4/01 W 0-2 - Zamora got another . .. BHA = 1st L2 title, PA = 13th 58pts.
03/4 - under Steve Coppell; (A) 30/8/03 D 3-3 - you certainly couldn't call us perfidious.
03/4 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 31/1/04 W 2-1 - perfectly pleasant win . BHA = 4th 77pts po-s promo C. PA = 1st L1 title.
04/5 - . under Mark McGhee; (H) 10/8/04 L 0-2 - poor, purely pitiful play. (A) 12/3/05 L 5-1 - caught napping and sunk all hands . BHA = 20th 51pts, PA = 17th 53pts.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (H)29/8/05 W 2-0 - attacked, coulda got 5. (A) 4/3/06 L 1-0 - a fluke meant defeat . BHA = 24th rel L1. PA = 14th 56pt.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Sep W 0-2. (H) Feb W 4-0 . BHA = 1st L1 title, PA = 23rd deducted 10pts rel L2.
C21 EFL record: P12 . W4 D1 L1 . F11 A4 . W2 D2 L2 . F11 A12 . Pt21 GD+6

EFL from 99/00: 12 12 1 L2, 8 1 L1, 17 14 11 10 21 / 23 C, 23 L1, 21 21 10 7 5 2 L2, 7 21 L1 / 3 L2, 18 7 1 L1, 21 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 10th C '08, worst = 21st L2 '12 '13 . promo - '02 '17 '20 L2, '04 '23 L1, p-os - '15 '16 L2, rel - '10 C, '11 '19 L1.
past managers; Kevin Hodges (1998-2000), Paul Sturrock (00-4), Bobby Williamson (04-5), Tony Pulis (05-6), Ian Holloway (06-7), Paul Sturrock (07-9),
Paul Mariner (09-10), Peter Reid (10-12), Carl Fletcher (2012), John Sheridan (12-15), Derek Adams (15-19), Kevin Nancekivall (interim 2019), Ryan Lowe (19-21), Steven Schumacher (21-23), Ian Foster (2024)
FA Cup; q-f - '07 . EFL Cup; nq . EFL Trophy; final - '23, s-f - '15, q-f - '11 '13 '16.

C21 Info - in 06/7 and 07/8, Pilgrims were mid table or better in the Championship. Scot and Argyle fancier Paul Sturrock, had gone back to a club he really liked. As Albion laboured in League1, Adams suddenly returned to start a second revolution. There are other certain similarities between these clubs apart from Withdean era back-back lower league titles. Both are on the edge geographically, with cities of open, hilly, sprawling seaside aspects on the English channel. Their catchment areas are also large enough to flirt with dreams of national elite status. Incredibly Plymouth purchased Home Park in this period - against a trend or what? Brighton meanwhile waited for Falmer as a reality. Both outfits aimed to get back at level2 but staying there - is it deemed successful enough?
In 9/10, Pilgrims sunk again, from second bottom in the Championship. Administration scuppered any further plans of a return voyage. In 10/11 they
beached in L1 and for 11/12 Argyle nearly went out of business in L2 but survived... and reached the p-o final in 15/16.
Then went one better in 16/17 with auto-promo as runners-up. At end of 18/19 Pilgrims were relegated from L1.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Plymouth's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. Argyle were 3rd and got auto promo. The next season in L1 began in September. Argyle were in the bottom eight. The following term 21/22 they just missed p-os. Then champs and promo. In 23/24 Argyle were 21st in the C'ship.

PORTSMOUTH

C'ship record from 11/12: 22 C, 24 L1, 13 16 6 1 L2 / 8 4 3 8 10 8 1 L1 @ 29/4/24.
recent relegated - '12 C, '13 L1 . promo - '17 L2, '24 L1 . p-os '16 L2, '19 '20 L1.
STATUS; once upon a time a big club but those days disappeared with harsh financial realities of this century.
MANAGER; John Mousinho (2023), previously Danny Cowley (21-23), Kenny Jackett (17-21) .
ground: Fratton Park 20k. nickname: Pompey . shirt: blue.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3/4 @ 17/12/20 = no fans.

FALMER years; from 2011. Season1, 11/12 C'ship.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (A) 13/8/11 W 0-1 - massive win on road. (H) Mar W 2-0 . BHA = 10th 66pt. Po'mth = 22nd 40pt (-10pt admin) - relegated to L1.
C'ship record: P2 . W1 D0 L0 . F2 A0 . W1 D0 L0 . F1 A0 . Pt6 GD+3

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Season4, 02/3 C'ship. FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
Championship - found a safe harbour from big guns.
Pompey seemed to somehow survive in div1 during Albion's blue period, when the Withdean era evolved from a homecoming via Priestfield - rather
than at Fratton Park. Then it got better for both clubs. Yes folks we actually once played 'em during an excursion into div1 (Championship).
02/3 - under Martin Hinshelwood; (A) 31/8/02 L 4-2 - outplayed. Under Steve Coppell; (H) 18/1/03 D 1-1 - held top outfit . BHA = 23rd 45pts rel. Po'mth = 1st C title.
C21 total C'ship record: P4 . W1 D1 L0 . F3 A1 . W1 D0 L1 . F3 A4 . Pt7 GD+1

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 18 20 17 1 C, 13 16 17 9 8 14 / 20 P, 16 22 C, 24 L1, 13 16 6 1 L2, 8 4 / 3 8 10 8 1 L1 @ 4/5/24
Prem: best = 8th '08, worst = 20th '10 . top ten - '07 '08 . stayed up - '05 '06, relegated - '10 . C'ship: promo - '03, rel - '12 .
L1: promo - '24, p-os - '19 '20, rel - '13 . L2: promo - '17.
past managers; Alan Ball (1998-9), Tony Pulis (2000), Steve Claridge (00-1), Graham Rix (01-2), Harry Redknapp (02-4), Velimir Zajec (04-5),
Alain Perrin (2005), Harry Redknapp (05-8), Tony Adams (08-9), Paul Hart (2009), Avram Grant (09-10), Steve Cotterill (10-11), Michael Appleton (11-12),
Guy Whittingham (12-13), Richie Barker (2013), Andy Awford (14-15), Paul Cook (15-17), Kenny Jackett (17-21), Danny Cowley (21-23)
Prem: Portsmouth first joined the elite league (started in 1992) for 03/04.
FA Cup; winners - '08, finalists - '10, q-f - '04 . EFL Cup; q-f - '05, '10 . League Trophy; winners - '19, final - '20 . UEFA Cup; group stage - '08.

C21 Info - Pompey played up in the Prem when many had 'em for the drop in 04/5 and 05/6. Harry Redknapp returned as manager and new Russian financial backing helped. They finished 17th and performed some sort of miracle escape act. In 06/7 and 07/8 Portsmouth consolidated in higher mid-table. There were mega-bucks plans to completely redevelop Fratton on land adjacent. Then there was even a waterfront proposal on reclaimed land in the dockyards. One way or another, something else will be built on the south coast as ambitious football clubs go for, er, broke. Well, it all came tumbling down anyway. Talk about mega debts, somebody was taking the p!$$ big time. In 9/10, Pompey were relegated from the Prem as bottom club with points deductions to boot. They didn't even keep their self respect. For 10/11 the Fratton Park mob were mid table in the Championship. They went tits up in L1 by dropping straight thru to L2 in 12/13.
It did get a little better by 16/17, with promotion back to L1 as champions, on GD! At end of 18/19 Pompey got to tier three p-o s-fs.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March due to the Covid-19 crisis. Portsmouth were then in 3rd place and took part in p-os during July. The next L1 season began in September. Pompey missed p-os. The following term 21/22 they were just top ten. Then 8th. In 23/24 Portsmouth were L1 champions.

PRESTON

C'ship record from 11/12: 15 14 5 3 L1, 11 11 / 7 14 9 13 13 12 10 @ 4/5/24.
C'ship: top half - '16 '17 '18 '20 '23 . L1: promo - '15 . p-os - '14.
STATUS; another historic northern club who fell from grace but can compete in today's EFL.
MANAGER; Paul Heckingottom (2024)
previously Ryan Lowe (21-24), Frankie McAvoy (2021), Alex Neil (17-21).
ground: Deepdale . nickname: Lilywhites . shirt: white.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years from 2011. Seasons 5-6, 15/16-16/17 C'ship.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Oct D 0-0. (A) Mar D 0-0 . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, PNE = 11th 62pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Oct D 2-2. (A) Jan L 2-0 .. BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, PNE = 11th 62pt
C'ship record: P4 . W0 D2 L0 . F2 A2 . W0 D1 L1 . F0 A2 . Pt3 GD-2

WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 4 6-7, 02/3 04/5-05/6 C'ship . FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
Championship - more of a museum venue these days.
North End were only a div2 club during Albion's, Gillingham and early Withdean era days. They made the leap to div1 (C'ship) in 2001 as BHA scrambled out of div3 (L2). We'd quickly got to join 'em at tier two and all fixtures are at equivalent Championship standard. In 2002 Steve Coppell had come in to attempt a rescue act and keep us in the div. We went to Deepdale following an abysmal start to the season. A similar pattern occured over following C'ship campaigns.
02/3 - under Steve Coppell; (A) 23/11/02 D 2-2 - unbeaten in four. (H) 12/4/03 L 0-2 - lost the plot . BHA = 23rd 45pts rel, PNE = 12th 61pts.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 28/8/04 W 1-0 - pressure pressed home. (A) 5/4/05 L 3-0 - pretended to play 'em . BHA = 20th 51pts, PNE = 4th 75pts p-os.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 27/8/05 D 0-0 - used pace to contest. (H) 11/3/06 D 0-0 - huffed, puffed, missed chances . BHA = 24th relegated. PNE made p-os.
C21 total C'ship record: P10 . W1 D3 L1 . F3 A4 . W0 D3 L2 . F2 A7 . Pt9 GD-6

EFL from 99/00: 1 L1, 4 8 12 15 5 4 7 15 6 / 17 22 C, 15 14 5 3 L1, 11 11 7 14 / 9 13 12 10 @ 4/5/24
C'ship: best = 4th, worst = 22nd, p-os - '01 '05 '06 '09, top half - 8 times, relegated - '11 . L1: promo - '00 '15, p-os - '14.
past managers; David Moyes (1998-2002), Craig Brown (02-4), Billy Davies (04-6), Paul Simpsom (06-7), Alan Irvine (07-9), Darren Ferguson (2010),
Phil Brown (10-11), Graham Westley (11-13), Simon Grayson (13-17), Alex Neil (17-21), Frankie McAvoy (2021), Ryan Lowe (21-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; s-f - '12 '13, area finalists - '15.

C21 Background - during the noughties Lilywhites became a bench-mark Championship side and forever seemed to be competing for, if not actually contesting play-off stages. Brighton however couldn't consolidate in tier two and faced an uphill struggle without a decision on our new stadium. The less than risible R word, resources, revenue and renewing, or not, of season-tickets, all took a toll.
So Brighton was forced to sell some squad members to stay afloat. A black hole that was Withdean and light-years distant nebula of Falmer sucked the club toward potential catastrophe. Preston were a club with know-how and could set an example for success if only BHA could rejoin 'em.
By end of 07/8 PNE had slipped to mid table mediocrity and the Prem was merely a dream. At end of 08/9 BHA were on course to make a pukka bid for a future meeting at Falmer. If it happened, would they be deeply depressed at Deepdale by then? Time would tell. In 9/10, Lilywhites were still somewhere deep enough - in mid table anonimity. It fell apart for 10/11 when they were relegated to L1 in 22nd. In 13/14 NE reached L1 p-os, being promoted the following season. In 17/18 they were next just outside lev2 play offs. But at end of 18/19 Lilywhites were merely midtable.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Preston finished outside p-os in July. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September. NE ended in mid table. Next term 21/22 they were 13th. Then 12th. In 23/24 Preston were 10th in the C'ship.

QPR

C'ship record from 11/12: 17 20 P, 4 C, 20 P, 12 18 / 16 19 13 9 11 20 18 @ 4/5/24.
C'ship: p-os - '14 . Prem: rel - '13 '15 . bottom six - '12.
STATUS; a lesser metropolitan outfit with constraints on expansion, physically and otherwise.
MANAGER; Marti Cifuentes (2023)
previously Gareth Ainsworth (2023), Neil Critchley (22-23), Paul Hall (interim), Michael Beal (2022), Mark Warburton (19-22).
ground: Loftus Road 18k . nickname: Rs . shirt: blue & white hoops.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20 = no fans.

FALMER years from 2011. Seasons 3 5-6, 13/14 15/16-16/17 Championship.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (A) Sep D 0-0. (H) Mar W 2-0 . .. BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, QPR = 4th 80pt won p-o final, promo to Prem.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Dec D 2-2. (H) Apr W 4-0 .. BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, QPR = 12th 60pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Dec W 3-0. (A) Apr W 1-2 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promo, QPR = 18th 53pt
C'ship record: P6 . W3 D0 L0 . F9 A0 . W1 D2 L0 . F4 A3 . Pt14 GD+10

WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1 3 5-7 . 01/2 03/4 L1, 04/5-05/6 C'ship . League Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
Championship & League One - aiming for loftier heights.
Rangers were a continual div1 outfit while Albion struggled to leave div3 behind. In 2001 both clubs were in div2 and looking to keep and make a leap of faith.
01/2 - under Micky Adams; (H) 8/9/01 W 2-1 - fortress or what? under Peter Taylor; (A) 26/12/01 D 0-0 - happy New Year. BHA = 1st, QPR = 8th 71pts.
03/4 - under Steve Coppell; (H) 18/8/03 W 2-1 - possibly realistic. Under Mark McGhee; (A) 17/1/04 L 2-1 - quote, 'P right-off.' BHA = 4th p via p-os. QPR = 2nd a-p.
Each club now wanted to establish in tier two for obvious reasons, although their circumstances were very different.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 18/9/04 L 2-3 - cue philanthropic realism. (A) 1/1/05 D 0-0 - bird in the loft worth one pt in Shepherds Bush . BHA = 20th, QPR = 11th.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 26/12/05 W 1-0 - bruising Xmas encounter. (A) 18/3/06 D 1-1 - Seagulls fed on scraps. BHA = 24th 38pt relegated. QPR = 21st 50pt.
C21 total EFL record: P14 . W6 D0 L1 . F16 A5 . W1 D5 L1 . F6 A6 . Pt26 GD+11

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 10 23 C, 8 4 2 L1, 11 21 18 14 11 / 13 1 C, 17 20 P, 4 C, 20 P, 12 18 16 19 / 13 9 11 20 18 @ 4/5/24
Prem: stayed up - '12, rel - '13 '15 . C'ship: best = 1st '11, worst = 23rd '01, promo - '11, p-os - '14, rel - '01 . L1: promo - '04.
QUEENS PARK RANGERS were one of the original 22 clubs to play in the new Premier League of 1992. They competed there until 95/96.
past managers; Gerry Francis (1998-2001), Ian Holloway (01-6), Gary Waddock (2006), John Gregory (06-7), Luigi Di Canio (07-8), Iain Dowie (2008),
Paulo Sousa (08-9), Jim Magilton (2009), Paul Hart (09-10), Neil Warnock (10-12), Mark Hughes (2012), Harry Redknapp (12-15), Chris Ramsey (2015),
Neil Warnock (2015), Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (15-16), Ian Holloway (16-18), Steve McClaren (18-19), Mark Warburton (19-22), Michael Beal (2022),
Neil Critchley (22-23), Gareth Ainsworth (2023)
FA Cup; q-f - '95 . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; s-f - '04.

C21 Info - Rangers needed some investment because they were mid table anonimity in 06/7 and 07/8. A big-time owner took over and fun began in the Bush.
We once played 'em on a regular basis, perhaps our rebirth will coincide with a chance to visit White City again. For 9/10 they were very mid table at Loftus Road.
But with big money at the west end outfit, hoops won the C'ship title in 10/11 - despite threat of points deduction. But they dropped out of the Prem in 12/13, then
bounced back after 13/14... oh dear, down again after 14/15. At end of 18/19 Hoops were again merely lower order in lev2.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. QPR finished in mid table in July. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September. Rangers ended in the top ten. Next term 21/22 they were 11th. Then 20th. In 23/24 Rangers were 18th in the C'ship.

SHEFF UTD

PREM record from 11/12: 3 5 7 5 11 1 L1) / 10 2 C, 9 20 P, 5, 2 C, 20 @ 20/5/24.
Prem: top ten - '20 . rel - '21 '24 . C'ship: promo - '19 . L1: title - '17 . p-os - '12 '13 '15 '22.
STATUS; a club with ancient history at the highest level and vying to find status quo after decades in second tier or worse . 2nd sesn syndrome - '20 9th, '21 20th.
MANAGER; Chris Wilder (2023)
previously Paul Heckingbottom (21-23), Slavisa Jokanovic (2021), Chris Wilder (16-21) .
owner: Abdullah bin Musa'ad Abdulaziz Al Saud 198m .
ground: Bramall Lane 32k . nickname: Blades . shirt: red & white stripes.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
24/25 onwards - not Premier League
23/24 - 03 07 28 . 35 104 -69 . 16 20 . 07.8 . 18.4 . 73.6 - Chris Wilder & Paul Heckingbottom
21/22 - 22/23 not Premier League.
20/21 - 07 02 29 . 20 63 -43 . . 23 20 . 18.4 . 05.2 . 76.3 - Chris Wilder. Rel
19/20 - 14 12 12 . 39 39 00 .. . 54 09 . 36.8 . 31.5 . 31.5 - Chris Wilder, finish 27/7/20.
17/18 - 18/19 not Premier League.

FALMER years: from 2017 - seasons 9-10 13, 19/20-20/21 23/24 Prem.
24/25 onwards - not Premier League.
23/24 - under Roberto de Zerbi: (H) Nov D 1-1. (A) Feb W 0-5 . BHA = 11th 48pts, SU = 20th 16pts
21/22 - 22/23 not Premier League.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (H) Dec D 1-1. (A) Apr L 1-0 . . BHA = 16th 41pt, SU = 20th 23pt rel.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (H) Dec L 0-1. (A) Feb D 1-1 . . BHA = 15th 41pt, SU 9th, 54pt.
17/18 - 18/19 not Premier League.
Prem: P6 . W0 D2 L1 . F2 A3 . W1 D1 L1 . F6 A2 . Pt6 GD3
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20 = No fans allowed in stadium.

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - no meetings.
WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 4 6-7, 02/3 04/5-05/6 C'ship.
Championship - wished to join the elite again.
Blades were a div1 (C'ship) club when Albion were in div3 (League Two), struggling at Gillingham prior to a return to north Brighton suburbs for 1999.
02/3 - under Martin Hinshelwood; (H) 19/10/02 L 2-4. Under Steve Coppell; (A) 18/3/03 L 2-1 . BHA = 23rd 45pt ~ rel, SU = 3rd 80pts p-os.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 2/10/04 D 1-1 - stayed sharp & sliced 'em open. (A) 15/1/05 W 1-2 - blunted their edge at death . BHA = 20th 51pt, SU = 8th 67pt.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 13/9/05 L 0-1 - froze, defrosted, cold comfort. (A) 21/1/06 L 3-1 - made silly mistakes . BHA = 24th 38pt ~ rel, SU = 2nd ~ promo to PL
C21 C'ship record; P6 . W0 D1 L2 . F3 A6 . W1 D0 L2 . F4 A6 . Pt4 GD-5

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 16 10 13 3 8 8 2 C, 18 P, 9 3 / 8 23 C, 3 5 7 5 11 1 L1, 10 2 C / 9 20 P, 5 2 C, 20 P @ 20/5/24
Prem: top ten - '20 . relegated - '07, '21 '24 . C'ship: promo - '06 '19 '23 . p-os - '03 '09 '22.
Prem: SHEFFIELD UNITED were one of the original 22 clubs to play in the new Premier League of 1992. They were relegated to Div1 (Championship) in 93/94.
past managers; Neil Warnock (1999-2007), Bryan Robson (07-8), Kevin Blackwell (08-10), Gary Speed (2010), Micky Adams (10-11), Danny Wilson (11-13),
Chris Morgan (2013), David Weir (2014), Nigel Clough (14-15), Nigel Adkins (15-16), Chris Wilder (16-21), Slavisa Jokanovic (2021), Paul Heckingbottom (21-23)
FA Cup; s-f - '93 '98 '03 '14. q-f - '20 . EFL Cup; s-f - '03, '15.

C21 Info - in 06/7 United dropped back into tier two. Some would say they had hard luck but cold stats record their goal difference was inferior, by only one - compared to the 17th placed club. In 07/8 they missed C'ship p-os at the death, as any number of usual suspects were chasing fifth and sixth spots. For 08/9 they lost a p-o final. But they had hope to elevate again, especially in a city where the blue side of life also wanted to rear its ugly head. However in 9/10, Blades missed play-offs again, by several points. Micky Adams was manager in 10/11 but they went down to L1 from 23rd place. For 11/12 United trailed Wednesday to an auto-promo spot. Things came good in 16/17 when ending as champions of L1 - then reaching 10th at lev2 of 17/18. At end of 18/19 Blades were promoted as runners up in the Championship.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended in mid March '20, restarted during June and finished in late July. Thus the following season began from mid September. United were relegated to the C'ship by mid Apr '21. Next term 21/22 they took part in p-os. Then auto promo to Prem. In 23/24 SU finished 20th and rel.

SHEFF WED

C'ship record from 11/12: 2 L1, 18 16 13 6 4 / 15 12 16 24 C, 4 3 L1, 20 @ 4/5/24.
recent p-os - '16 '17 C, '22 L1 . rel - '21 C . promo - '12 '23 L1 .
STATUS; a big club in many respects but flatters to deceive in recent years.
MANAGER; Danny Rohl (2023)
previously Xisco Munoz (2023), Darren Moore (21-23), Neil Thompson (2021), Tony Pulis (2020), Garry Monk (19-20) .
ground: Hillsborough 39k . nickname: Owls . shirt: blue & white stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years from 2011. Seasons 2-6, 12/13-16/17 C'ship.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet: (H) Sep W 3-0. (A) Feb L 3-1 . . . . BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. SW = 18th 58pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (H) Oct D 1-1. (A) Mar L 1-0 . .. BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, SW = 16th 53pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (H) Aug L 0-1. Under Chris Hughton; (A) Feb D 0-0 . BHA = 20th 47pt, SW = 13th 60pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton, (A) Nov D 0-0. (H) Mar D 0-0 . BHA = 3rd 89pt, SW = 6th 74pt - p-o 1st leg 2-0, 2nd leg 1-1, agg lost 1-3.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Oct W 1-2. (H) Jan W 2-1 . BHA = 2nd 93pt pomoted, SW = 4th 81pt p-os
Champ's record: P10 . W2 D2 L1 . F6 A3 . W1 D2 L2 . F3 A5 . Pt13 GD+1

WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 4-5 7 12 . 02/3 C'ship, 03/4 L1, 05/6 C, 10/11 L1.
Championship & League One - like Owls in a huge empty barn.
Wednesday were in the Premiership when BHA started the Withdean era just before Y2k.
We joined them in div1 (Championship) a couple of seasons into the new century.
02/3 - under Steve Coppell; (A) 7/12/02 D 1-1. (H) 21/4/03 D 1-1 . BHA = 23rd 45pt, SW = 22nd 46pt - both clubs relegated.
03/4 - under Steve Coppell; (H) 20/9/03 W 2-0 - super sureshots.
03/4 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 27/3/04 L 2-1 - big ground, small time . BHA = 4th p via p-os, SW = 16th 53pt.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 24/10/05 D 1-1 - pinched a point. (H) 17/4/06 L 0-2 - sent us down . BHA = 24th rel, SW = 19th 52pt.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Aug L 1-0 . (H) Apr W 2-0 . BHA = 1st title, SW = 15th.
C21 total EFL record: P18 . W4 D4 L1 . F12 A6 . W1 D3 L5 . F6 A11 . Pt22 GD+1

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 19 P, 17 20 22 C, 16, 5 L1, 19 9 16 12 / 22 C, 15 2 L1, 18 16 13 6 4 15 12 / 16 24 C, 4 3 L1, 20 @ 4/5/24
Prem: relegated - '00 . C'ship: best = 4th '17, worst = 24th '21 . p-os - '16 '17, rel - '03 '10 '21 . L1: promo - '05, '12 '23.
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAYwere one of the original 22 clubs to play in the new Premier League of 1992. They competed there continuously until Y2k.
past managers; Danny Wilson (1998-2000), Paul Jewell (2000-1), Peter Shreeves (2001), Terry Yorath (01-2), Chris Turner (02-4), Paul Sturrock (04-6),
Brian Laws (06-9), Alan Irvine (10-11), Gary Megson (11-12), Dave Jones (12-14), Stuart Gray (14-15), Carlos Carvalhal (15-18), Jos Luhukay (18-19),
Steve Bruce (2019), Garry Monk (19-20), Tony Pulis (2020), Neil Thompson (2021), Darren Moore (21-23), Xisco Munoz (2023)
FA Cup; finalist - '93, q-f - '97 . EFL Cup; finalist - '93, s-f - '94 . League Trophy; s-f - '04 '11 . UEFA Cup; rnds - '93 '96.

C21 Background - In 06/7 Owls were 9th in the Championship. However in 07/8 they only beat the threatened drop when results went to the wire but fortunately their way, on the traditional final Sunday. Incidentally their nickname originates from playing at Owlerton, which was swallowed up by Sheffield's conurbation nearly a century ago. Place names are inextricably linked to Football clubs and create a bond. Come time to move, we move - from level to level or place to place.
Eventually Albion did relocate and our stadium did amalgamate with a wider community, just like at Hillsborough in a very different time. In 08/9 they were mid table and we'll meet again one day. Yeah, sooner than you think coz in 09/10 Owls were relegated from the Championship. We can thank Palace for that in a last day nail biter. For 11/12 they done Sheff Utd to auto-promo. Wednesday reached Champ's p-os in 15/16 & 16/17. At end of 18/19 Owls were again midtable but city rivals Blades went up.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Wednesday finished in mid table in July. However they incurred a 12pt penalty for 20/21 due to financial deficiencies. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September. Owls dropped into L1, although drawing on the last day, finishing bottom. The following term 21/22 Wednesday reached L1 p-os. Then 3rd, winning the p-o final in the last minute of extra time. In 23/24 Wednesday were 20th in the C'ship.

STOKE

C'ship record from 11/12: 14 13 9 9 9 13 / 19 P, 16 15 14 14 16 17 @ 4/5/24.
Prem: top ten - '14 '15 '16 . rel - '18 .
STATUS; gained a Prem place in 2008, established as a middle of the road outfit... but then... Second-Season Syndrome: 08/9 - 12th then 09/10 - 11th.
MANAGER; tba
previously Steven Schumacher (23-24), Alex Neil (22-23), Michael O'Neill (19-22).
ground: Bet365 Stadium 30k . nickname: Potters . shirt: red & white stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . L% - Prem mgr.
18/19 onwards - not Premier League.
17/18 - 07 12 19 . 35 68 -33 . 33 19 . 18.4 31.5 50.0 - Paul Lambert & M Hughes.
16/17 - 11 11 16 . 41 56 -15 . 44 13 . 28.9 28.9 42.1 - Mark Hughes.
Hughes was straight down the middle in terms of where his team finished in the Premier League, since the days of similarly mediocre Tony Pulis.

FALMER years: from 2011 - season7, 17/18 Prem.
18/19 onwards - not Premier League.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton: (H) Nov D 2-2. (A) Feb D 1-1 . BHA = 15th 40pt, SC = 19th 33pt relegated.
PREM; P2 . W0 D1 L0 . F2 A2 . W0 D1 L0 . F1 A1 . Pt2 GD0

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - no meetings.
WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 3-4 6-7 . 01/2 L1, 02/3 04/5-05/6 C'ship . FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
League One & Championship - to think they only made it via League1 play-offs.
Potters fell to third tier at the Britannia as Albion completed a season at Gillingham. We met in 01/2 for div2 (L1), then 02/3 thru 05/6 in the Championship:
01/2 - under Micky Adams; (H) 18/9/01 W 1-0. Under Peter Taylor; (A) 1/3/02 L 3-1 . BHA = 1st 90pt promoted, SC = 5th 80pt won p-os.
02/3 - under Martin Hinshelwood; (H) 17/9/02 L 1-2. Under Steve Coppell; (A) 5/3/03 L 1-0 . BHA = 23rd 45pt rel, SC = 21st 50pt.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 17/12/04 L 0-1 - bah, humbug, festive gloom. (A) 5/3/05 L 2-0 - two pennies Brit image . BHA = 20th 51pt, SC = 12th 61pt.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 5/11/05 L 3-1 - fell apart. (H) 30/4/06 L 1-5 - unmotivated & unprofessional . BHA = 24th rel, SC = 13th 58pt - who really cared?
C21 total EFL record; P8 . W1 D0 L3 . F3 A8 . W0 D0 L4 . F1 A9 . Pt3 GD-13

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 6 5 5 L1, 21 11 12 13 8 2 C, 12 / 11 13 14 13 9 9 9 13 19 P, 16 / 15 14 14 16 17 C @ 4/5/24.
PREM: best = 9th . worst = 19th - '18 . top ten - '14 '15 '16 . relegated - '18 . C'ship: promo - '08 . L1: promo - '02.
past managers; Gudjon Thordarson (1999-2002), Steve Cotterill (2002), Tony Pulis (02-5), Johan Boskamp (05-6), Tony Pulis (06-13), Paul Lambert (2018),
Mark Hughes (13-18), Gary Rowett (2018-19), Nathan Jones (2019), Michael O'Neill (19-22), Alex Neil (22-23), Steven Schumacher (23-24)
Prem: Stoke City initially joined the elite league (started in 1992) for 08/09.
FA Cup; finalists - '11, q-f - '10 '12 . EFL Cup; s-f - '16, q-f - '09 '14 . League Trophy; winners - '92 '00 . Europa League; rnds - '12.

C21 info - in 06/7 with proper dosh under fired-up Potters, they got 8th - promise of better. We hated 'em really, especially as they went up from the C'ship in 07/8. They survived Prem seasons of 08/9 and did better in 9/10. But we still hoped to meet again, later perhaps rather than sooner - apart from FA Cup.
In 10/11 they were mid table. And were hoping to stay in the top ten after 15/16. But it went tits up in 17/18 as Potters cracked and dropped into the C'ship.
At end of 18/19 City were lower midtable of lev2.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Stoke finished in mid table in July. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September. Potters got to a mid table finish. Next term 21/22 they were 14th. Then 16th. In 23/24 Stoke were 17th in the C'ship.

SUNDERLAND

C'ship record from 11/12: 13 17 14 16 17 20 P, 24 C, 5 7 4 5 L1, 6 16 @ 4/5/24.
recent Prem: rel - '17 . bottom six - '13 '15 '16 . C'ship: rel - '18 . L1: po-s - '19, '21, promo - '22.
STATUS; lower order Prem regulars this century until timeless fickle finger of footy fate pointed to lower league!
MANAGER; Regis Le Bris (2024)
previously Mike Dodds (2024), Michael Beal (23-24), Tony Mowbray (22-23), Alex Neil (2022), Lee Johnson (20-22), Phil Parkinson (19-20).
ground: Stadium of Light 49k . nickname: Black Cats . shirt: red, white stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Falmer years: from 2011 - no league fixtures . League Cup - go to FY tab, previous encounters.
WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011 - Season6, 04/5 C'ship.
Championship - at least we got one chance to go see their place.
Black Cats were a bit of a yo-yo club between tiers 1&2, while moving from Roker Park. Albion were simultaneously groundless, stuck in tier4 at end of the 20th century. Then pace gathered in the Withdean era but we missed 'em originally in div1 of 02/3. BHA were soon back in the C'ship and Mark McGhee kept us there.
It hardly seemed possible that we were actually off to see the Stadium of Light in a season of shocks.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 30/10/04 L 2-0. (H) 19/2/05 W 2-1 . BHA = 20th 51pts. S'land = 1st promo elite again.
C'ship: P2 . W1 D0 L0 . F2 A1 . W0 D0 L1 . F0 A2 . Pt3 GD-1

PREM/EFL from 99/00: 7 7 17 20 P, 3 1 C, 20 P, 1 C, 15 16 / 13 10 13 17 14 16 17 20 P, 24 C, 5 / 7 4 5 L1, 6 16 C @ 4/5/24
Prem: best = 7th '00 '01, worst = 20th '03 '06 '17 . top ten - '00 '01 '11 stayed up - '02 '08 '09 '13 '15 '16, rel - '03 '06 '17.
C'ship: promo - '05 '07, rel - '18 . L1: p-os - '19 '21, promo - '22.
past managers; Peter Reid (1995-2002), Howard Wilkinson (02-3), Mick McCarthy (03-6), Niall Quinn (2006), Roy Keane (06-8), Ricky Sbragia (08-9),
Steve Bruce (09-11), Martin O'Neill (11-13), Paulo Di Canio (13-14), Gus Poyet (14-15), Dick Advocaat (2015), Sam Allardyce (15-16), David Moyes (16-17),
Simon Grayson (2017), Chris Coleman (17-18), Jack Ross (18-19), James Fowler (2019), Phil Parkinson (19-20), Lee Johnson (20-22), Alex Neil (2022), Tony Mowbray (22-23), Michael Beal (23-24), Mike Dodds (2024)
Prem: SUNDERLAND were initially part of the elite league (started in 1992) for 96/97.
FA Cup; s-f - '04, q-f - '12, '14 . EFL Cup; s-f - '99, q-f - '01. finalists - '14 . League Trophy; winners - '21, finalists - '19.

C21 Info - talk about up and down, Sunderland and Brighton went on slightly different paths, bouncing between tiers 1&2 for the Wearside outfit and 2&3 for southern seasiders. For 08/9 they were in the Prem and we in League1, one side hoping to meet the other on another day eventually. Both clubs survived relegation scares on the last day. In 9/10, Black Cats had a er, half decent season in the Prem bottom half. We are still miles apart in more ways than one. But we still lived in hope, on finally reaching Falmer. For 10/11 they were mid table. And were again just above the drop zone in 15/16. But were rock bottom & relegated from PL in 16/17, while BHA were promoted from the Championship. Sunderland then fell straight thru the Champ's to L1 at end of 17/18. In 18/19 Black Cats reached p-o final.
In 19/20 the league was halted in March due to the Covid-19 crisis. Sunderland were then in 7th place. The next L1 season began in September. Cats reached p-os and also in 21/22. They won the final to get promo back to the C'ship. Then 6th. In 23/24 Sunderland were 16th in the C'ship.

SWANSEA

C'ship record from 11/12: 11 9 12 8 12 15 / 18 P, 10 6 4 15 10 14 @ 4/5/24.
Prem: top ten - '13 '15 . bottom six - '17 . rel - '18 . C'ship: p-os - '20 '21.
STATUS; Swans rose into the elite for 2011, survived as middle-order but... Second-Season Syndrome: 11/12 - 11th then 12/13 - 9th.
MANAGER; Luke Williams (2024)
previously Michael Duff (2023), Russell Martin (21-23), Alan Tate (caretaker 21), Steve Cooper (19-21) .
ground: Liberty Stadium 21k . nickname: Swans . shirt: white.
Covid: Welsh restrictions 27/12/21 . relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Welsh equivalent of lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3/4 @ 17/12/20.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . Pt Po . W% . D% . L% - Prem mgr
18/19 onwards - not Premier League.
17/18 - 08 9 21 . 28 56 -28 . 33 18 . 21.0 23.6 55.2 - C Carvalhal & P Clement.
16/17 - 12 5 21 . 45 70 -25 . 41 15 . 31.5 13.1 55.2 - Paul Clement.
Clement kept the Welsh side in the Premier League following any number of short-term managerial appointments during the last six years.
EUROPA LEAGUE; 13/14 - last 32.

FALMER years: from 2011 - season7, 17/18 Prem.
18/19 onwards - not Premier League.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Nov W 0-1. (H) Feb W 4-1 . BHA = 15th 40pt, SC = 18th 33pt Relegated
PREM; P2 . W1 D0 L0 . F4 A1 . W1 D0 L0 . F1 A0 . Pt6 GD+4

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - no meetings.
WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 1 8-9 . 99/00 L2, 06/7-07/8 L1 . League Cup & Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
Leagues Two & One - ok, they know they are. Swansea City won old div3 (L2) in 2000 and Brighton failed to make play-offs in that great Withdean era revival.
For one reason or another, paths didn't cross until 2006 after both clubs were in League1.
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (A) Dec L 2-0. (H) Apr D 1-1 . BHA = 11th, SC = 1st.
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) Dec W 3-2. (A) Apr L 2-1 . Both clubs mid table.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) Sep D 0-0. (H) May L 0-1 . BHA failed to make p-os. SC champs.
C21 EFL record: P6 . W1 D1 L1 . F4 A4 . W0 D1 L2 . F1 A4 . Pt4 GD-3

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 1 L2, 23 L1, 20, 21, 10, 3 L2, 6, 7, 1 L1, 8 / 7 3 C, 11 9 12 8 12 15 18 P, 10 / 6 4 15 10 14 C @ 4/5/24
PREM: best = 8th - '15 . worst = 18th - '18 . top ten - '13 '15 . stayed up - once in bottom six '17, relegated - '18.
C'ship: promo - '11 . L1: promo - '08, rel - '05 . L2: promo - '00 '05.
past managers; John Hollins (1998-2001), Colin Addison (01-2), Nick Cusack (2002), Brian Flynn (02-4), Kenny Jackett (04-7), Roberto Martinez (07-9),
Paulo Sousa (09-10), Brendan Rodgers (10-12), Michael Laudrup (12-14), Garry Monk (14-15), Alan Curtis (15-16), Francesco Guidolin (2016),
Bob Bradley (2016), Carlos Carvalhal (17-18), Paul Clement (2017), Graham Potter (18-19), Steve Cooper (19-21), Russell Martin (21-23), Michael Duff (2023)
Prem: Swansea City first joined the elite league (started in 1992) for 11/12.
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; winners - '13 . League Trophy; winners - '94 & '06, s-f - '08, q-f - '01 . Europa League; rnds - '13.

C21 info - before turn of the century, there had been some re-development at old Vetch Field, their town ground not far from Swansea Bay beaches. However plans to expand were washed up on a tide of back-yard objections, assorted flotsam from close neighbours and jetsam of an over-crowded built-up area. The City Council finally stepped into foaming shallows to offer a solution. A design for a 20,000 capacity venue to be sited further in-land was proposed, plus acreage and funds. Aspects of that iconic Stadium of Light in Sunderland were also to be inherited. This made for an impressive allegory by association, rather than just being next to distant Premiership wannabes in an alphabetical list of clubs.
Planning permission was granted at Morfa, where in an act of minority-sport desecration an athletics track was er, demolished - what, heaven forbid! Brighton fans in difference to their public image, can actually be considered ironical if so desired. Anyway the local authority spent 27 million pounds and got top-notch, translucent roofing as well on three sides - just like on Wearside.
Albion faithful were in the alien north stand, where invaders information is presented in modern English on notices, signs and the tannoy. If you get there early enough, 'Abertawe' can be read in large letters formed by each adjacent home block of Swans seating. Hey, they're bloody Welsh and want us to know they are...
In 9/10, City were just short of Championship play-offs. For 10/11 they won promotion to the Prem via play-offs. And still held a regular mid table slot in 15/16.
Not bad for foreigners in English leagues. In 18/19 Swans were rebuilding, ending midtable back in the Championship.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Swansea took part in p-os during July. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September. Swans again got to p-os but lost in the final. Next term 21/22 they were 15th. Then 10th. In 23/24 Swansea were 14th in the C'ship.

WATFORD

C'ship record from 11/12: 11 3 13 2 C, 13 17 / 14 11 19 P, 2 C, 19 P, 11 15 C @ 4/5/24.
Prem: bottom six - '17 . rel - '20 '22 . C'ship: runner-up - '15 '21 . p-os - '13.
STATUS; having broken back into the Prem after a couple of single-season visits this century, Watford appeared a middle-order side there... until 2020.
Second-Season Syndrome: 15/16 - 13th then 16/17 - 17th.
MANAGER; Tom Cleverley (2024)
previously Valerien Ismael (23-24), Chris Wilder (2023), Slaven Bilic (22-23), Rob Edwards (2022), Roy Hodgson (2022), Claudio Ranieri (2021), Xisco Munoz (20-21), Vladimir Ivic (2020).
ground: Vicarage Road 21k . nickname: Hornets . shirt: yellow.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20 = 0 fans.

Seasn . W D L . . . . F A GD . . Pt Po . . W% . D% . L% - Prem mgr.
22/23 onwards - not Premier League.
21/22 - 06 05 27 . 34 77 -43 . 23 19 . 15.7 . 13.1 . 71.0 - Roy Hodgson. Relegated . (Claudio Ranieri, Xisco Munoz)
20/21 - not Premier League.
19/20 - 08 10 20 . 36 64 -28 . 34 19 . 21.0 . 26.3 . 52.6 - Nigel Pearson, finish 27/7/20.
18/19 - 14 08 16 . 52 59 -07 . 50 11 . 36.8 . 21.0 . 42.1 - Javi Gracia.
17/18 - 11 08 19 . 44 64 -20 . 41 14 . 28.9 . 21.0 . 50.0 - Javi Gracia & Marco Silva.
Gracia arrived very late in the term, when Silva was in the frame for the Everton appointment next season.
16/17 - 11 07 20 . 40 68 -28 . 40 17 . 28.9 18.4 52.6 - Walter Mazzarri.
The outer London outfit had a double figure number of managerial appointments in the last 6 years. It was the turn of Italian Walter Mazzarri for a single season.

FALMER years; from 2011 - seasons 7-9 11, 17/18-19/20 21/22 Prem. 1-4, 11/12-14/15 C'ship.
22/23 onwards - not Premier League.
21/22 - under Graham Potter: (H) Aug W 2-0. (A) Feb W 0-2 . BHA = 9th 51pts, Wat = 19th 23pt - rel.
20/21 - not Premier League.
19/20 - under Graham Potter; (A) Aug W 0-3. (H) Feb D 1-1 . BHA = 15th 41pt, Wat = 19th 34pt rel.
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Aug L 2-0. (H) Feb D 0-0 . . BHA = 17th 36pt, Wat = 11th 50pt.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Aug D 0-0. (H) Dec W 1-0 . BHA = 15th 40pt, Wat = 14th 41pt.
PREM; P8 . W2 D2 L0 . F4 A1 . W2 D1 L1 . F5 A2 . Pt14 GD+6

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - Seasons 1-4.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Nov L 1-0. (H) Apr D 2-2 . . . BHA = 10th 66pt. Wat = 11th 64pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Sep W 0-1. (H) Dec L 1-3 . . BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. Wat = 3rd 77pt lost p-o final.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia, (H) Oct D 1-1. (A) Feb L 2-0 . BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, Wat = 13th 60pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (A) Sep D 1-1. Under Chris Hughton; (H) Apr L 0-2 . BHA = 20th 47pt, Wat = 2nd 89pt - promoted.
CHAMP'S; P8 . W0 D2 L2 F4 A8 . W1 D1 L2 F2 A4 . Pt6 GD-6

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 4 6-7 . 02/3 04/5-05/6 C'ship . FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
Championship - just how do they do it with no big dosh?
Hornets got buzzed up from div2 (L2), went straight thru div1 (C) and had a season in the Prem when Albion got back home for start of the Withdean era.
02/3 - under Martin Hinshelwood; (A) 5/10/02 L 1-0. under Steve Coppell; (H) 26/4/03 W 4-0 . BHA = 23rd rel, Wat = 13th 60pt.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 11/9/04 D 1-1 - nearly gave 'em what for. (H) 3/1/05 W 2-1 - definitely gave 'em... . BHA = 20th 51pt, Wat = 18th 52pt.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 3/12/05 D 1-1 - didn't fold up the Vicarage. (H) 18/2/06 L 0-1 - up and under did us. BHA = 24th rel, Wat = 3rd p-os.
C21 total C'ship: P14 . W2 D2 L3 . F10 A10 . W1 D3 L3 . F4 A7 . Pt14 GD-3

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 20 P, 9 14 13 16 18 3 C, 20 P, 6 13 / 16 14 11 3 13 2 C, 13 17 14 11 / 19 P, 2 C, 19 P, 11 15 C @ 4/5/24.
PREM: best = 11th - '19, worst = 20th - '00 '07 . stayed up - 1 time in bottom six '17 . relegated - '00 '07 '20 '22.
C'ship: promo - '06 '15 '21 . p-os - '08 '13.
past managers; Graham Taylor (1997-2001), Gianluca Vialli (01-2), Ray Lewington (02-5), Ady Boothroyd (05-8), Brendan Rodgers (08-9),
Malky Mackay (09-11), Sean Dyche (11-12), Gianfranco Zola (12-13), Giuseppe Sannino (13-14), Oscar Garcia (2014), Slavisa Jokanovic (14-15),
Quique Sanchez Flores (15-16), Walter Mazzarri (16-17), Marco Silva (17-18), Javi Gracia (18-19), Quique Sanchez Flores (2019),
Nigel Pearson (19-20), Vladimir Ivic (2020), Xisco Munoz (20-21), Claudio Ranieri (2021), Roy Hodgson (2022), Rob Edwards (2022), Slaven Bilic (22-23), Chris Wilder (2023), Valerian Ismael (23-24)
Prem: at formation of the elite league in 1992 Watford were a Div1 (Championship) side. They first gained a place at tier1 for 99/00.
FA Cup; s-f - '07, '16, finalists - 19. EFL Cup; s-f - '05, EUROPE; finals - not qualified in the Prem era.

C21 info - Watford went up to the elite for 06/7 but were odds on to fail to stay there. They gave an ongoing points impression of the Watford Gap, although this is actually in Northamptonshire and also very far from those Prem venues. Back in the Championship of 07/8, the Hertfordshire outfit were inside play-offs as well as the M25.
But there again, so were Palace and they lost semi's too. By 08/9 & 9/10 they were pretty much obscure in lower mid-table. For 10/11 Hornets got to 14th at level two.
After an upturn in fortunes they made the elite in 14/15, reaching mid-table in the Prem of 15/16.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the Prem was suspended during March '20. After restart Watford were relegated in July. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September. Hornets were promoted straight back to the Prem during Apr '21, finishing as runners-up in May. The next term 21/22 they were 19th and relegated again. Then 11th. In 23/24 Watford were 15th in the C'ship.

WEST BROM

C'ship record from 11/12: 10 8 17 13 14 10 / 20 P, 4 2 C, 19 P, 10 9 5 C @ 4/5/24.
Prem: top ten - '12 '13 '17 . bottom six - '14 . rel - '18 '21 . C'ship: promo - '20 . p-os - '19.
STATUS; the midlands outfit established in the Prem since 2011, became middle order but... Second-Season Syndrome: 10/11 - 11th, 11/12 - 10th.
MANAGER; Carlos Corberan (2022)
previously Richard Beale (interim), Steve Bruce (2022), Valerian Ishmael (21-22), Sam Allardyce (20-21), Slaven Bilic (19-20) .
owner: Guochuan Lai 2.2bn . ground: The Hawthorns 27k . nickname: Baggies . shirt: dark blue & white stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20 = No fans allowed in stadium.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . . Pt Po . W% . D% . . L% - Prem mgr.
21/22 onwards - not Premier League.
20/21 - 05 11 22 . 35 76 -41 . 26 19 . 13.1 . 28.9 . 57.8 - S Allardyce & S Bilic.
18/19 - 19/20 not Premier League.
17/18 - 06 13 19 . 31 56 -25 . 31 20 . 15.7 . 34.2 . 50.0 - D Moore, A Pardew & T Pulis.
16/17 - 12 09 17 . 43 51 -08 . 45 10 . 31.5 . 23.6 . 44.7 - Tony Pulis.
Pulis was the man who they couldn't relegate. So he came on board to do a job after managerial problems in 2014 and did good until late 2017.

FALMER Years: from 2011 - seasons 7 10, 17/18 20/21 Prem . FA Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
21/22 onwards - not Premier League.
20/21 - under Graham Potter; (H) Oct D 1-1. (A) Feb L 1-0 . . BHA = 16th 41pt, WBA = 19th 26pt rel.
18/19 - 19/20 not Premier League.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Sep W 3-1. (A) Jan L 2-0 . BHA = 15th 40pt, WBA = 20th 31pt relegated.
PREM; P4 . W1 D1 L0 . F4 A2 . W0 D0 L2 . F0 A3 . Pt4 GD-1

Championship: from 2011 to 2017 - no meetings . Withdean era: from 1999 to 2011 - no meetings.

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 21 6 2 C, 19 P, 2 C, 17 19 P, 4 1 C, 20 P / 2 C, 11 10 8 17 13 14 10 20 P, 4 / 2 C, 19 P, 10 9 5 C record @ 4/5/24.
PREM: best = 8th - '13 . worst = 20th - '09 '18 . top ten - '12 '13 '17 . stayed up - '05 '14, relegated - '03 '06 '09 '18 '21
C'ship: promo - '02 '04 '08 '10 '20, p-os - '19
past managers; Brian Little (1999-2000), Gary Megson (00-4), Bryan Robson (04-6), Tony Mowbray (06-9), Roberto Di Matteo (09-11),
Roy Hodgson (11-12), Steve Clarke (12-14), Pepe Mel (2014), Alan Irvine (2014), Tony Pulis (15-17), Alan Pardew (17-18),
Darren Moore (18-19), James Shan (2019), Slaven Bilic (19-20), San Allardyce (20-21), Valerian Ismael (21-22), Steve Bruce (2022)
PREM: West Bromwich Albion first joined the elite league (started in 1992) for 02/03.
FA Cup; s-f - '08, q-f - '02, '15 . EFL Cup; q-f - '04 . EUROPE; not qualified.

C21 Footnote: WBA had several ups & downs between level2 & the PL this century and latterly reached C'ship playoff s-fs in 18/19.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. West Brom gained auto-promo as C'ship runners up, after June restart, when the league finished in late July. Thus the following PL season began from mid September. Baggies were duly relegated straight back to level2. Next term 21/22 they were 10th. Then 9th. In 23/24 WBA were 5th in the C'ship.

LEAGUE ONE

BARNSLEY

League ONE record from 11/12: 21 21 23 C, 11 6 L1, 14 / 22 C, 2 L1, 21, 5 24 C, 4 6 @ 29/4/24.
L1: promo - '16 '19 . C'ship: p-os '21 . rel - '14 '18 '22 . bottom six - '12 '13 '20.
STATUS; a club that alternates in cycles between tiers 2 & 3 but is more comfortable in lower league.
MANAGER; Darrell Clarke (2024)
previously Neill Collins (23-24), Michael Duff (22-23), Martin Devaney (interim), Poya Asbaghi (21-22),
Joseph Laumann (caretaker), Markus Schopp (2021), Valerian Ishmael (20-21), Gerhard Struber (19-20).
ground: Oakwell 23k . nickname: Tykes . shirt: red.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years; from 2011 . Seasons 1-3 6, 11/12-13/14 16/17 C'ship.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Nov W 2-0. (A) Apr D 0-0 . . . . . . BHA = 10th 66pt. Tykes = 21st 48pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Aug W 5-1. (A) Mar L 2-1 . . . . . . BHA = 4th 75pt. Tykes = 21st 55pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (H) Dec L 1-2. (A) Apr D 0-0 . . . . BHA = 6th 72pt, Tykes = 23rd 39pt - relegated.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Sep W 2-0. (A) Feb W 0-2 . BHA = 2nd 93pt, Tykes = 14th 58pt.
C'ship: P8 . W3 D0 L1 . F10 A3 . W1 D2 L1 . F3 A2 . Pt14 GD+8

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Season 5, 03/4 L1.
League One - watch out, there's Tykes about!
Barnsley had been a regular div1 (C) outfit, as BHA laboured in lower leagues of late 20th century years. But the footy world turns and while we had ups, they had downs. During the early Withdean era of 2003, Steve Coppell was still manager in div2 (League1) when we first went up north to their Oakwell Stadium.
03/4 - (A) Aug L 1-0 - blatantly beat in Yorks. Under Mark McGhee; (H) Jan W 1-0 - better to bag one in Sussex. BHA = promo via p-os. Tykes = 12th 62 pts.
C21 total EFL record: P10 . W4 D0 L1 . F11 A3 . W1 D2 L2 . F3 A3 . Pt17 GD+8

EFL from 99/00: 4 16 23 C, 19 12 13 5, L1, 20 18 20 / 18 17 21 21 23 C, 11 6 L1, 14 22 C, 2 L1 / 21 5 24 C, 4, 6 L1 @ 4/5/24
C'ship: best = 4th '00, worst = 24th '22 . p-os '21, stayed up - '07 '09 '12 '13 '20 . relegated - '02 '14 '18 '22 . L1: promo - '06 '16 '19.
past managers; Dave Bassett (1999-2000), Nigel Spackman (2001), Steve Parkin (01-2), Glyn Hodges (02-3), Gudjon Thordarson (03-4), Paul Hart (04-5),
Andy Ritchie (05-6), Simon Davey (07-10), Mark Robins (09-11), Keith Hill (11-12), David Flitcroft (12-13), Danny Wilson (13-15), Lee Johnson (15-16),
Paul Heckingbottom (16-18), Joe Morais (2018), Daniel Strendel (18-19), Adam Murray (2019), Gerhard Struber (19-20), Valerian Ishmael (20-21),
Markus Schopp (2021), Poya Asbaghi (21-22), Michael Duff (22-23), Neil Collins (23-24)
EFL Trophy; winner - 15/16.

Info - incredibly, Barnsley were in the Prem of 97/98 for a season, when Brighton played home games at Gillingham. Tykes fell right thru to div2 (L1) while Albion went the opposite way for 02/3 in div1 (C'ship). They had gone into administration at Grove Street and seemed destined to struggle. But in 05/6 the Oakwell outfit won their League1 p-o final to make a bid for establishing back in the Championship. Meanwhile BHA relegation meant Withdean would once more host League1 opposition until moving to Falmer. In 08/9 & 9/10, Tykes were still at tier two and beat threat of the drop - dirty northern miners. For 10/11 they finished 17th in the C'ship. After dropping into L1 for two terms, they won the p-o final in 15/16. But next went back down to lev3 at end of 17/18, only for Tykes to rise again in 18/19.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Barnsley finished just above the drop zone in July. Thus the following C'ship season began from mid September. Tykes got into p-os. Next term 21/22 they were 24th and relegated to L1. Then 4th, losing the p-o final in the last minute of extra time. In 23/24 Barnsley were in L1 p-os.

BIRMINGHAM

League One record from 11/12: 4 12 21 10 10 19 / 19 17 20 18 20 17 22 C @ 4/5/24.
C'ship: rel - '24 . bottom six - '14 '17 '18 '20 '21 '22 . p-os - '12.
STATUS; a lower order second level outfit who need investment to regain Prem membership maybe some day.
MANAGER; Chris Davies (2024)
previously Gary Rowett (interim), Tony Mobray (2024), Wayne Rooney (2023), John Eustace (22-23), Lee Bowyer (21-22), Aitor Karanka (20-21), Pep Clotet (19-20) .
ground: St Andrews 29k . nickname: Blues . shirt: dark blue.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER Years; from 2011 . Seasons 1-6, 11/12-16/17 Championship.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Oct D 0-0. (H) Apr D 1-1 . . . . . BHA = 10th 66pt. BC = 4th 76pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Sep L 0-1. (A) Jan D 2-2 . . . .. BHA = 4th 75pt. BC = 12th 61pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (A) Aug W 0-1. (H) Jan W 1-0 .. BHA = 6th 72pt, BC = 21st 44pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (A) Aug L 1-0. under Chris Hughton; (H) Feb W 4-3 . BHA = 20th 47pt, BC = 10th 63pt
15/16 - under Chris Hughton, (H) Nov W 2-1. (A) Apr W 1-2 . BHA = 3rd 89pt, BC = 10th 63pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Dec W 1-2. (H) Apr W 3-1 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, BC = 19th 53pt
C'ship; P12 . W4 D1 L1 F11 A7 . W3 D2 L1 F7 A5 . Pt24 GD+6
Withdean era - from 1999 to 2011, no meetings.

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 5 5 5 C, 13 10 12 18 P, 2 C, 19 P, 2 C / 9, 18 P, 4 12 21 10 10 19 19 17 / 20 18 20 17 22 C @ 4/5/24
Prem: best = 9th - '10, worst = 19th - '08 . top ten - '04 '10 relegated - '06 '08 '11 . C'ship: rel - '24 . promo - '02 '07 '09.
past managers; Trevor Francis (1996-2001), Steve Bruce (01-7), Alex McLeish (07-11), Chris Hughton (11-12), Lee Clark (12-14), Gary Rowett (14-16),
Gianfranco Zola (16-17), Harry Redknapp (2017), Steve Cotterill (17-18), Garry Monk (18-19), Pep Clotet (19-20), Aitor Karaka (20-21), Lee Bowyer (21-22), John Eustace (22-23), Wayne Rooney (2023), Tony Mobray (2024)
Prem: Birmingham City were not part of the elite league (that started in 1992) until promo from div1 in 2002.
FA Cup; q-f - '06, '10 '11 . EFL Cup; winners - '11, finalists - '01, q-f - '06.

C21 info - City were mostly a Premiership outfit during the noughties but spent three seasons back then in equivalent of the Championship (C) - 08/9, 06/7 and 01/2.
In years from 11/12 they became a lower order placed side by 17/18. In 18/19 Blues suffered a 9pt deduction for breaking rules & regs.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Birmingham finished in lower order in July. Thus the following C'ship season began from mid September. City were again just above the bottom six. Next term 21/22 they were 20th. Then 17th. In 23/24 B'ham were 22nd in the C'ship and rel.

BLACKPOOL

League One record from 11/12: 5 15 20 24 C, 22 L1, 7 L2 / 12 10 13 3 L1, 16 23 C, 8 L1 @ 29/4/24.
C'ship: p-os - '12 . rel - '15 '23 . L1: promo - '21 . rel - '16 . L2: promo - '17.
STATUS; yet another northwest club with history from days of yore. Tasted the Prem but very cold coastal fare there since.
MANAGER; Steve Bruce (2024)
previously Neil Critchley (23-24), Mick McCarthy (2023), Michael Apperton (22-23), Neil Critchley (20-22).
ground: Bloomfield Road 17k . nickname: Seasiders . shirt: tangerine.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years; from 2011. Seasons 1-4, 11/12-14/15 C'ship.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Aug D 2-2. (A) Mar L 3-1 . . . . BHA = 10th 66pt. B'pool = 5th 75pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Oct D 1-1. (H) Apr W 6-1 . . . . BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. B'pool = 15th 59pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (A) Dec W 0-1. (H) Apr D 1-1 . BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, B'pool = 20th 46pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (H) Sep D 0-0. Under Chris Hughton; (A) Jan L 1-0 . BHA = 20th 47pt, B'pool = 24th 26pt - relegated.
Champ's record: P8 . W1 D3 L0 . F9 A4 . W1 D1 L2 . F3 A5 . Pt10 GD+3

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 2-3 5 8 . 00/1 L2, 01/2 03/4 06/7 L1.
Leagues One & Two - towering to old heights.
Seasiders were usually found in div2 during those seasons when BHA became homeless, before taking up 'temporary' residence at Withdean.
00/1 - under Micky Adams; (A) Sept W 0-2 - credibility restored after losing 3 in 4. (H) Feb W 1-0 . BHA = 1st a-p, B'pool = 7th promo thru play-offs.
01/2 - under Micky Adams; (H) Aug W 4-0. Under Peter Taylor; (A) Dec D 2-2 . BHA = 1st title, B'pool = 16th 56 pts.
03/4 - under Steve Coppell; (H) Oct W 3-0 - beautiful & brilliant. Under Mark McGhee; (A) Apr L 3-1 - blitzed at beach . BHA = 4th Millennium Stad, B'pool = 14th 59pts.
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) Oct L 0-3. (A) Mar D 0-0 . BHA = 18th, B'pool promo via p-os.
C21 total EFL record: P16 . W4 D3 L1 . F17 A7 . W2 D3 L3 . F8 A10 . Pt24 GD+8

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 22 L1, 7 L2, 16, 13 14 16 19 3 L1, 19 16 / 6 C, 19 P, 5 15 20 24 C, 22 L1, 7 L2, 12 10 / 13 3 L1), 16 23 C, 8 L1 @ 4/5/24
Prem: 19th, rel - '11 . C'ship: promo - '10, p-os - '12, rel - '15 '23 . L1: promo - '07 '21, rel - '00 '16 . L2: promo - '01 '17
past managers; Nigel Worthington (1997-9), Steve McMahon (2000-4), Colin Hendry (04-5), Simon Grayson (05-8), Ian Holloway (08-12),
Michael Appleton (2012), Paul Ince (12-14), Barry Ferguson (2014), Jose Riga (2014), Lee Clark (2015), Neil McDonald (15-16), Gary Bowyer (16-18),
Terry McPhilips (18-19), Simon Grayson (19-20), Neil Critchley (20-22), Michael Appleton (22-23), Neil Critchley (23-24)
Prem: Blackpool reached the elite league (started in 1992) just once, for 10/11.
FA cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; winners - '02 '04, q-f - '16.

C21 Info - filling up with readily available, once cheap but possibly dodgy supermarket fuel, for an away trip via the M6, might have been detrimental to revs per minute, match-day budget, getting all the way there and also BBC Lancs listening figures. And that is not to say some stranded southern victims couldn't enjoy Radio Sussex as tanks, pint glasses and wallets were subsequently emptied in alternative surroundings. But guess what - yeah, off up north again, to Blackpool. At risk of boring you with a tenuous historical connection, there were other fuel problems of an opposite, insufficient capacity variety during September 2000 when Brighton visited Bloomfield Road for a div3 (L2) clash. It happened to be a night fixture and so, full drama of inevitably crawling up rush-hour motorways, also had that draining effect but probably more so on the psyche. Petrol could be found in some rural locations that evening and Albion travelling hordes homed in on a 'super' station near Oxford, flooding their forecourt to gather enough supplies for return trips to Sussex. In those days Bloomfield Road was in early stages of a makeover and where away support was allocated, there used to be a covered terrace. On its tangerine roof in huge dark lettering, Coucher & Shaw Solicitors stood out right down the length of Seasiders' pitch. Brighton fans might wonder if said firm handled any legal implications of completion, for turning a N-W coasts answer to constricted Sussex-by-the-sea sites into a pukka stadium. Building their ground to twenty first century standards had however, become excessively protracted. Almost like getting a government department to recognise squatters rights, in lieu of much delayed, proper registration-of-title for BHA at Falmer's foreign field.
In 08/9 fuel was plentiful but very expensive in comparison to even a single season before. Perhaps Blackpool's stay in the Championhip would further delay a 600 mile round-trip until those Blue and Tangerine promotion and relegation issues were resolved for the north-south divide. In 9/10, BHA were stuck in L1 with Falmer being built. Meanwhile Blackpool got to a Champs p-o final. They lasted a season in the Prem but went down on the very last day of 10/11 in a nail biting finish to the Tangerine Dream. Much worse was to come as they'd dropped into L2 for 16/17 - but just got into p-os and won the final! At end of 18/19 Seasiders just finished inside L1 top ten.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March and ended early due to the Covid-19 crisis. Therefore the following L1 season started in September. Pool reached p-os and went on to win the final and promo to C'ship in May '21. Next term 21/22 they were 16th. Then 23rd and rel. In 23/24 Blackpool were 8th in L1.

BOLTON

League One record from 11/12: 18 P, 7 14 18 24 C, 2 L1 / 21 23 C, 23 L1, 3 L2, 9 5 3 @ 29/4/24.
recent Prem: relegated - '12 . C'ship: rel - '16 '19 . L1: promo - '17, rel - '20 . L2: promo - '21.
STATUS; one time Prem outfit to 2012, Wanderers aimed to reach & maintain at least a level two placing.... but...
MANAGER; Ian Evatt (20-24) .
ground: Uni of Bolton Stad 28.7k . nickname: Trotters . shirt: white, black trim.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years; from 2011. Seasons 2-5, 12/13-15/16 Championship.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Nov D 1-1. (A) Mar L 1-0 . . . . . . BHA = 4th 75pt. BW = 7th 68pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (H) Sep W 3-1. (A) Mar W 0-2 . . BHA = 6th 72pt, BW = 14th 59pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (H) Aug W 2-1. Under Chris Hughton; (A) Feb L 1-0 . BHA = 20th 47pt, BW = 18th 51pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Sep D 2-2. (H) Feb W 3-2 . BHA = 3rd 89pt, BW = 24th 30pt - relegated.
C'ship: P8 . W3 D1 L0 F9 A5 . W1 D1 L2 F4 A4 . Pt14 GD+4
Withdean era - from 1999 to 2011, no meetings.

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 6 3 C, 16 17 8 6 8 7 16 13 / 14 14 18 P, 7 14 18 24 C, 2 L1, 21 23 C / 23 L1, 3 L2, 9 5 3 L1 @ 4/5/24
Prem: top ten - 4 times, bottom six - 3 times, relegated - '12 . C'ship: promo - '01, rel - '16 '19 . L1: promo - '17, rel - '20 . L2: promo - '21.
past managers; San Allardyce (1999-2007), Sammy Lee (2007), Gary Megson (07-9), Owen Coyle (09-12), Dougie Freedman (12-14), Neil Lennon (14-16),
Jimmy Phillips (2016), Phil Parkinson (16-19), Keith Hill (19-20)
Prem: Bolton Wanderers first joined the elite league (started in 1992) for 95/96 and also played there in 97/98.
FA Cup; s-f - '00 '11, q-f - '94 '05 '12 . EFL Cup; finalists - '95 '04, s-f - '00, q-f - '02 '06 . EFL trophy - winners '23 . UEFA Cup; r16 - '07, r32 - '05 .

C21 Note - Wanderers fell out of the Premiership on the last afternoon of 11/12 season after spending the last decade there. But worse was to come with relegation to League One at end of 15/16. They regained lev2 status when L1 runners-up in 16/17 - just about retaining that in 17/18. At end of 18/19 BW dropped into third tier once more. They started in L1 with a -12pt deduction for EFL irregularities.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March due to the Covid-19 crisis. Bolton were then rock bottom of the div, having suffered from that pts handicap. Trotters got relegated to L2 in June after the season had ended early. The next L2 season started in September. Trotters ended 3rd and auto promo back to L1. The following term 21/22 they were a top ten side. Then 5th. In 23/24 Bolton were in L1 p-os.

BURTON

League Oon record from 11/12: 17 4 6 1 L2, 2 L1, 20 / 23 C, 9 12 16 16 15 20 @ 29/4/24.
recent C'ship: rel - '18 . L1: promo - '16 . L2: promo - '15 . p-os - '13 '14.
STATUS; a non-league club until 2009 and established in FL as high as level2 but perhaps lower league is more appropriate for this midlands Albion.
MANAGER; tba
previously Mark Robinson (2024), Martin Paterson (23-24), Dino Maamaria (22-23), Jimmy F Hasselbaink (21-22), Jake Buxton (2020), Nigel Clough (15-20) .
ground: Pirelli Stad 7k . nickname: Brewers . shirt: yellow.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years from 2011. Season6, '16/17 Championship . EFL Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Sep W 0-1. (H) Feb W 4-1 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, BA = 20th 52pt
C'ship: P2 . W1 D0 L0 F4 A1 . W1 D0 L0 F1 A0 . Pt 6 GD+3
Withdean era: from 1999 to 2011 - no meetings.

NL/EFL from 99/00: x 2 2 SLP, 16 14 16 9 6 5 1 NL, 13 / 19 17 4 6 1 L2, 2 L1, 20 23 C, 9 / 12 16 16 15 20 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 20th C '17, worst = 16th NL '03 '05 . p-os - '13 '14 L2, promo - '09 NL, '15 L2, '16 L1, rel - '18 C.
past managers; Nigel Clough (1998-2009), Roy McFarland (2009), Paul Peschisolido (09-11), Gary Rowett (12-14), Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (14-15),
Nigel Clough (15-20), Jake Buxton (2020), Jimmy F Hasselbaink (21-22), Dino Maamria (22-23), Martin Paterson (23-24), Mark Robinson (2024)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; s-f - '19.

C21 Info - Burton were a Conference club from 02/3 until winning the non-league title (Blue Square Prem) in 08/9. They reached L2 play-off s-f in 12/13 & 13/14. Then successive promotions in 14/15 & 15/16. But returned to L1 from the C'ship after 17/18, being a top ten outfit there in 18/19.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March and ended early due to the Covid-19 crisis. The next L1 season started in September. Albion lowest of middle eight. The following term 21/22 they repeated that finish. Then 15th. In 23/24 Burton were 20th in L1.

BRISTOL ROVERS

League One record from 11/12: 13 14 23 L2, 2 NL, 3 L2, 10 13 15 15 24 L1, 3 L2, 17, 15 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '16 '22 L2, '15 NL . rel - '21 L1, '14 L2.
STATUS; falling into non-league was a wake up call for the provincial Bristol club, usually second best to City anyway.
MANAGER; Matt Taylor (2023)
previously Joey Barton (21-23), Tommy Widdrington (2021) caretaker .
ground: Memorial Stad 12k . nickname: Pirates . shirt: light blue & white quarters.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20 & 26/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 17/12/20 = 2000 fans.

Falmer years: from 2011 - no league meetings . EFL Cup - see FY tab previous encounters.
WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 9-12, 07/8-10/11 L1. League Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
League One - set on a course for a new world.
Brighton first played Rovers, during seasons covered by this archive, in 1st rounds of the League Cup of 2003 under Steve Coppell and 2004 led by Mark McGhee.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) Oct D 0-0. (A) Apr W 0-2 . BHA = 7th missed p-os. BR had Mem Stad due for reconstruction but got credit crunched instead.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (H) Aug D 1-1 - a photo finish. Under Russell Slade; (A) Apr W 1-2 . BHA = 16th, BR = 11th.
9/10 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Sept D 1-1. (H) Apr W 2-1 . . BHA = 13th 59pts, BR = 11th 62pts.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Nov D 2-2. (A) Feb W 2-4 . BHA = 1st champions, BR = 22nd rel.
C21 EFL record: P8 . W1 D3 L0 . F5 A4 . W3 D1 L0 . F9 A4 . Pt16 GD+6

NL/EFL from 99/00: 7 21 L1, 23 20 15 12 12 6 L2, 16 11 / 11 22 L1, 13 14 23 L2, 2 NL, 3 L2, 10 13 15 / 15 24 L1, 3 L2, 17 15 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 7th L1 '00, worst = 2nd NL '15 . promo - '07 '16 '22 L2, '15 NL, rel - '01 '11 '21 L1, '14 L2.
past managers; Ian Holloway (1996-2001), Garry Thompson (01-2), Gerry Francis (2001), Ray Graydon (02-4), Ian Atkins (04-5), Paul Trollope (05-10),
Dave Penney (2011), Paul Buckle (11-12), Mark McGhee (2012), John Ward (2013), Darrell Clarke (14-18), Graham Coughlan (2019), Ben Garner (19-20),
Paul Tisdale (20-21), Joey Barton (21-23)
FA Cup; q-f - '08 . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; finalist - '07, s-f - '02, '05, '11, '19.

C21 Background - Rovers were a regular div2 outfit before and at turn of the 21st century, when Albion were also on the up. We swapped divisions in 2001 as they were on a downward spiral, while we were upward. Rovers once flirted with Conference football but managed to beat a second drop in 2003, just as Albion came down from div1.
They hung around in lower reaches until getting a shot at play-offs in 2007. Rovers also made a JPT final, beating rivals City for southern area representatives.
Extensive redevelopment plans as well as that televised 2008 FA Cup run surely helped with raising the club's profile.
In 13/14 Rovers were relegated from the FL into non-league. But bounced straight back - twice, to be in L1 for 16/17. At end of 18/19 Pirates were midtable.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March and ended early due to the Covid-19 crisis. Therefore the following L1 season started in September. Rovers were relegated to L2 in Apr '21. Next term 21/22 they were 3rd and promoted back into L1. Then 17th. In 23/24 Rovers were 15th in L1.

CAMBRIDGE

League One record from 11/12: 9 14 2 NL, 19 9 11 11 21 16 2 L2, 14 20 18 L1 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '21 L2, '14 NL.
STATUS; plenty of ups & downs toward base of the footy pyramid. Consolidating in the EFL is acceptable.
MANAGER; Garry Monk (2024)
previously Neil Harris (23-24), Mark Bonner (20-23).
ground: Abbey Stad 8k . nicknames: Us . shirt: yellow, black stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans . Tier 4 @ 26/12/20 = no fans.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era - from 1999 to 2011. Season3, 01/2 L1 . League Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
League One - dealing with the university of footy life.
U's kicked around in div3 (L2) during Albion's gory years. In 1999 they went up to div2 (L1).
A couple of seasons later we joined 'em there while wending our way from gutter to the stars.
01/2 - under Micky Adams; (A) 11/8/01 D 0-0. Under Peter Taylor; (H) 19/1/02 W 4-3 . BHA = 1st title, CU = 24th 34pts relegated back to div3 (L2).
C21 EFL record: P2 . W1 D0 L0 . F4 A3 . W0 D1 L0 . F0 A0 . Pt4 GD+1

NL/EFL from 99/00: 19 19 24 L1, 12 13 24 L2, 12 17 2 2 / 10 17 9 14 2 NL, 19 9 11 12 21 / 16 2 L2, 14 20 18 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 18th L1 '24, worst = 17th NL '11 . promo - '21 L2, '14 NL . rel - '02 L1, '05 L2.
past managers; Richard Money (12-15), Shaun Derry (15-18), Joe Dunne (2018), Colin Calderwood (18-20), Mark Bonner (20-23), Neil Harris (23-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; finalists - '02, s-f - '03, q-f - '06 . FA Trophy; winners - '14.

C21 Info - United came late to the Football League, in terms of others previously accumulating tens of decades of professional participation. They'd next been around for well over thirty years in lower divisions but suddenly weren't on the FL lg2 fixture list any more. There had been ambitious plans to redevelop Abbey Stadium and a new stand was in situ when Albion visited as a pre-season, tier two outfit again, seemingly on the up for 2004. It certainly is a learning curve and historically, who'd be a student of ups and downs of an Association academy. At very end of the Withdean era during 2011, Cambridge were kicking about in non-league footy in Blue Square Prem where they stayed as BHA played at Falmer. In 13/14 they won the non-league p-o final by finishing second. At end of 18/19 U's were now a lower order L2 outfit.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Cambridge's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. United were in midtable. The next season at L2 began in September. U's ended as runners-up and promo from L2. The following term 21/22 they were mid table in L1. Then 20th. In 23/24 Cambridge were 18th in L1.

CHARLTON

League One record from 11/12: 1 L1, 9 18 12 22 C, 13 / 6 3 L1, 22 C, 7 13 10 16 @ 28/4/24.
recent C'ship: rel - '16 '20 . L1: promo - '12 '19 . p-os - '18.
STATUS; the metropolitan outfit graced the Prem during first decade this century but also tasted lower league fare more recently.
MANAGER; Nathan Jones (2024)
previously Michael Appleton (23-24), Dean Holden (22-23), Tony Hayes (interim), Ben Garner (2022), Johnnie Jackson (20-22), Nigel Adkins (2021), Lee Bowyer (18-21) .
ground: The Valley 27k . nickname: Addicks . shirt: red.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20 = no fans.

FALMER Years; from 2011. Seasons 2-5, 12/13-15/16 Championship.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Dec D 2-2. (H) Apr D 0-0 . . . . .. BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. CA = 9th 65pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (A) Dec L 3-2. (H) Apr W 3-0 . . . BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, CA = 18th 51pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (H) Aug D 2-2. Under Chris Hughton; (A) Jan W 0-1 . BHA = 20th 47pt, CA = 12th 60pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Dec W 3-2. (A) Apr W 1-3 . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, CA = 22nd 40pt - relegated.
C'ship record: P8 . W2 D2 L0 F8 A4 . W2 D1 L1 F8 A6 GD+6 Pt15

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 11-12, 09/10-10/11 L1
9/10 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Dec L 0-2. (A) Feb W 1-2 . . BHA = 13th 59pts, CA = 4th 84pts p-os.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Oct W 0-4. (H) Dec D 1-1 . BHA = 1st title, CA = 13th.
C21 total EFL record: P12 . W2 D3 L1 F9 A7 . W4 D1 L1 F14 A7 GD+9 Pt22

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 1 C, 9 14 12 7 11 13 19 P, 11 24 C / 4 13 1 L1, 9 18 12 22 C, 13 6 3 L1 / 22 C, 7 13 10 16 L1 @ 4/5/24
Prem: best = 7th '04, worst = 19th '07 . top ten - '01 '04, rel - '07 . C'ship: promo - '00, rel - '09 '16 '20 . L1: promo - '12 '19.
past managers; Alan Curbishley (1995-2006), Iain Dowie (2006), Les Reed (2006), Alan Pardew (06-8), Phil Parkinson (08-10), Chris Powell (10-14),
Jose Riga (2014), Bob Peeters (2014), Guy Luzon (2015), Karel Fraeye (15-16), Jose Riga (2016), Russell Slade (2016), Kevin Nugent (2016),
Karl Robinson (16-18), Lee Bowyer (18-21), Nigel Adkins (2021), Johnnie Jackson (21-22), Ben Garner (2022), Dean Holden (22-23), Michael Appleton (23-24)
Prem: Charlton Athletic first joined the elite league (started in 1992) for a season during 98/99.
FA Cup; q-f - '00 '06, '14 . EFL Cup: q-f - '07 '22.

C21 Background; Multiple celebrations - Gary Hart testimonial 26 July '08 at Withdean.
The ex-Prem outfit came down to give Brighton a good work-out, prior to upping the ante for other games against useful opposition. By bizarre coincidence Micky Adams was back for round2 of the Withdean Revolution and was trying to put together a squad capable of reaching the Championship, just as he instigated in 2001. On the face of it, we were a tad short on quality compared to then but originally it took him a whole season to get it right. Albion lost 0-1 and it probably coulda been more but for Kuipers saves. Most people had a nice day anyway, including Hart and Mayo who got offered contracts for '08/9. They'd seen it all before and so had FDM from those back-to-back glory days of fortress Withdean. Alan Pardew was pleased and that's saying something, considering he swapped jobs with 'lucky' Curbishley at successful West Ham. What a small world - Steve Coppell only went to Reading when Pardew first moved down the east end.
***
Brighton v Charlton on 8 May 2001 @ W'dean.
We first played 'em in our own friendly cup final to celebrate winning the 3rd division title in our 100th year. It was also a testimonial for BHA Pysio Malcolm Stuart and kit-man Jock Riddell, for years of 'over and above' service to Albion. Alan Curbishley had worked wonders at Charlton in their return to the Premiership that very season and got them into the top ten. He had been at the helm since 1990, initially with Steve Gritt for a partnership that lasted five years. As an Albion player, Curbishley made 132 appearances before joining Charlton as coach. He had started at West Ham, coming through ranks of their Academy, so knew a bit about the place at Upton Park.
As a kid, Curbishley (whose name is Llewellyn) was spotted for potential and made an impact for both England schoolboys and youth teams. He was in the side for West Ham at the 1975 Youth Cup final. As a creative midfielder, he played nearly 100 times at Hammers and also got into England's U21 squad. In 1979 he went to Birmingham and enjoyed a successful spell back in division 1. A busted knee and moves to Villa and Charlton saw a slight blip but he helped Athletic up to top flite football. Barry Lloyd brought Curbishley to the Goldstone in 1987 and a go at Third Division tactics. However, he proved to be inspirational as a playmaker and Albion regained div2 status after that one season, with 84 points for 2nd place. As a manager, Curbishley twice took Charlton into the Premiership. After establishing Addicks there since 2001, he took leave of absence in '05 and sat back for an inevitable phone call from that fickle finger of fate. We assume having witnessed a lengthy stadium merry go round at the Valley, which included a short ground share with West Ham, Curbishley understandably passed on the unfulfilled Falmer farce, when instincts told him an old colleague was young enough to walk in his footsteps. Perhaps a lack of money shouldn't really be expected to buy everything. He swapped jobs with Alan Pardew and went to West Ham anyway. Such is destiny.
Footnotes - Athletic were champs of L1 in 11/12. But dropped back into L1 for 16/17. Next reaching p-os in 17/18 & winning finalists for 18/19.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Charlton finished in the d-z and were relegated in July. Therefore the following L1 season started in September. Athletic ended up missing p-os. The following term 21/22 they were mid table. In Dec '22 Addicks knocked Seagulls out of the EFL Cup in a pen shootout. In 22/23 they were 10th. In 23/24 Charlton were 16th in L1.

CRAWLEY

League One record from 11/12: 3 L2, 10 14 22 L1, 20 19 14 19, 12 12 12 22 7 L2 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '12 '24 L2 . rel - '15 L1 . bottom six - '16 '17 L2.
STATUS; ex-non-league outfit initially experienced the bounce effect when gaining membership of EFL. Reality now is more an average of expectaions.
MANAGER; Rob Elliot (2024)
previously Scott Lindsey (23-24), Matthew Etherington (2022), Lewis Young (interim), Kevin Betsy (2022), John Yems (19-22) .
ground: Broadfield 6k . nickname: Reds . shirt: red.
Note: BHA Women play home games at Crawley.
The club received new ownerns in April '22 - an American investment company.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans . Tier 4 @ 26/12/20 = no fans.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings. Withdean era - from 1999 to 2011, no meetings.

NL/EFL from 99/00: 12 11 4 7 1 SP, 12 17 18 15 9 / 7 1 NL, 3 L2, 10 14 22 L1, 20 19 14 19 / 12 12 12 22 7 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 10th L1, worst = 18th NL . promo - '11 NL, '12 '24 L2 . rel - '15 L1.
past managers; Steve Evans (07-12), Craig Brewster (2012), Sean O'Driscoll (2012), Richie Barker (12-13), Guy Whittingham (2013), John Gregory (13-15),
Mark Yates (15-16), Dermot Drummy (16-17), Harry Kewell (17-18), Gabriele Coffi (18-19), John Yems (19-22), Kevin Betsy (2022), Matthew Etherington (2022), Scott Lindsey (23-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; q-f - '08 '15.

C21 Info - Town rose from low down the non-league pyramid to become (Blue Square) South prem champions in 2004. A period of upheaval at the club during the late noughties resulted in new owners investing and aiming high. They backed the small Sussex outfit to gain the coveted Conference (BSP) title (National League) in 2011 and on into the FL for 11/12. Red Devils then immediately achieved automatic promotion to L1. Ex-Albion boss Steve Coppell became Director of Football there. But for 15/16 they were back in L2. At end of 18/19 Town were again a lower order L2 outfit.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Crawley's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. Town were in midtable. The next L2 season began in September. Town again finished in mid table. Next term 21/22 they were 12th. Then 22nd. In 23/24 Crawley were 7th in L2 and won the p-o final.
In Aug '24 Albion hosted Crawley in the EFL Cup R2 winning 4-0.

EXETER

League One record from 11/12: 23 L1, 10 16 10 14 5 4 9 4 9 2 L2, 14 13 L1 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '22 L2 . p-os - '17 '18 '20 L2 . rel - '12 L1
STATUS; in mid noughties City turned out for more than a few non-league fixtures but predominately are a lower league outfit cutting cloth accordingly.
MANAGER; Gary Caldwell (2022), previously Kevin Nicholson & Ron Hill (caretakers) Matt Taylor (18-22).
ground: St James Park 8.5k . nickname: Grecians . shirt: red, white stripes & sleeves.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 31/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1-2 11-12 . 99/00-00/01 L2, 09/10-10/11 L1 . League Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
League One - from either two, it's all-fair and Blue square.
Grecians were a usual outfit in div3 (L2) at St James Park during both Albion's gory years and Withdean era homecoming period from Priestfield.
Micky Adams initially got the Withdean ball rolling for BHA and won promotion in 2 years. But Exeter City struggled again above the dreaded drop to non-league.
We didn't therefore meet again until the late noughties in League One.
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (H) 3/1/00 W 4-2. (A) 8/4/00 D 0-0 . . . BHA = 11th 67pt, EC = 21st 44pt.
00/01 - under Micky Adams; (H) 22/12/00 W 2-0. (A) 27/1/01 L 1-0. BHA = 1st prom L1, EC = 19th 50pt.
09/10 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Dec W 0-1 - in the wet. (H) Feb W 2-0 - sun out! . BHA = 13th 59pts, EC = 18th 51pts, beat rel last day.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Nov W 3-0. (A) Mar W 1-2 - 90m decider . BHA = 1st L1 title, EC = 8th.
C21 EFL record; P8 . W4 D0 L0 . F11 A2 . W2 D1 L1 . F3 A2 . Pt19 GD+10

NL/EFL from 99/00: 21 19 16 23 L2, 6 6 7 5 4 NL, 2 L2 / 18 8 23 L1, 10 16 10 14 5 4 9 / 4 9 2 L2, 14 13 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 8th L1 '11, worst = 7th NL '06 . promo - '08 NL, '09 L2, p-os - '17 '18, '20 L2 . rel - '03 L2, '12 L1.
past managers; Peter Fox (1995-2000), Noel Blake (00-1), John Cornforth (01-2), Neil McNab (02-3), Gary Peters (2003), Eamonn Dolan (03-4),
Alex Inglethorpe (04-6), Paul Tidsdale (06-18), Matt Taylor (18-22)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; s-f - '00 '11 '20 . FA Trophy; s-f - '06.

C21 Info - Exeter City finally if not inevitably, dropped out of the FL in 2002. They got back to tier four via play-offs in season 07/8. They then went straight-up to Lg1 in 08/9, when runners-up in Lg2 - well, well. Oh dear, Grecians got relegated to L2 again in 11/12.
For 16/17 & 17/18 they reached p-os. But at end of 18/19 just missed p-os.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Exeter's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. City were then in 4th place and took part in p-os during June but beaten in the final yet again. The next L2 season began in September. City were left outside playoffs. Next term 21/22 they were runners up and promo. Then 14th. In 23/24 Exeter were 13th in L1.

HUDDERSFIELD

League One record from 11/12: 4 L1, 19 17 16 19 5 C / 16 20 P, 18 20 3 18 23 C @ 4/5/24.
Prem: bottom six - '18 . rel - '19 . 2nd Season Syndrome: 17/18 - 16th, 18/19 - 20th . C'ship: rel - '24, promo - '17 . L1: promo - '12.
STATUS; historically a 2nd or 3rd tier outfit this century but from 17/18 Town were in new territory for a short spell.
MANAGER; Michael Duff (2024)
previously Andre Breitenreiter (2024), Darren Moore (23-24), Neil Warnock (2023), Mark Fotheringham (22-23), Danny Schofleld (2022), Carlos Corberan (20-22) .
ground: John Smiths Stad 24k . nickname: Terriers . shirt: blue & white stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Seasn . W D L . . . F A GD . . Pt Po . W% . D% . L% - Prem mgr
19/20 onwards - not Premier League.
18/19 - 3 07 28 . 22 76 -54 . 16 20 . 07.8 18.4 73.6 - David Wagner & Jan Siewert.
17/18 - 9 10 19 . 28 58 -30 . 37 16 . 23.6 26.3 50.0 - David Wagner.
David Wagner transformed Town from a lower order Championship side into play-off winners. His mission was to somehow beat the drop
and thus stay in the Premier League for another term but it proved too much with the quality & funds available.

FALMER years; from 2011 - seasons 7-8, 17/18-18/19 Prem . Seasons 2-6, 12/13-16/17 C'ship.
19/20 onwards - not Premier League.
18/19 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Dec W 1-2. (H) Mar W 1-0 . BHA = 17th 36pt, HT = 20th 16pt rel.
17/18 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Dec L 2-0. (H) Apr D 1-1 . .. BHA = 15th 40pt, HT = 16th 37pt
PREM; P4 . W1 D1 L0 . F2 A1 . W1 D0 L1 . F2 A3 . Pt7 GD0

Championship: Seasons 2-6.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet, (A) Nov W 1-2. (H) Mar W 4-1 . . . . BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. HT = 19th 58pt.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (H) Dec D 0-0. (A) Apr D 1-1 . .. BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, HT = 17th 53pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (A) Oct D 1-1. under Chris Hughton; (H) Apr D 0-0 . BHA = 20th 47pt, HT = 16th 55pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Aug D 1-1. (H) Jan W 2-1 . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, HT = 19th 51pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Sep W 1-0. (A) Jan L 3-1 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, HT = 5th 81pt won p-o final on penalties.
C'SHIP; P10 . W3 D2 L0 F7 A2 . W1 D3 L1 F6 A7 . Pt17 GD+4

WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011 - Seasons 3 8-12 . 01/2 06/7-10/11 League One
League One - hoping to revive their ailing health.
Terriers were had a fair run at tier-two level when Seagulls got beached up the Medway in a ground share.
An Adams-created Withdean-style BHA initially came across this ex-div1 outfit when meeting up in div2 (L1).
01/2 - under Micky Adams; (A) Oct W 1-2 - oh! oop north. Under Peter Taylor; (H) Feb W 1-0 - open-air joy. BHA promotion.
Never the twain shall meet until 2006. Both clubs by then had various ups and downs and managers came and went.
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) Oct W 0-3. (H) Mar D 0-0 . Each outfit in lower mid table in a disappointing season.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) Jan D 1-1. (A) Mar L 2-1. Realistically it all but put paid to our p-o challenge. BHA = 7th 68pt, HT = 10th 66pts.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (H) Nov L 0-1 - MA unhappy. Under Russell Slade; (A) Apr D 2-2 - happier. BHA = 16th 52pts, HT = 9th 68pts.
09/10 - under Russ Slade; (A) Aug L 7-1 biggest defeat in era. Under Gus Poyet; (H) Feb D 0-0 . BHA = 13th 59pts, HT = 6th 80pts play-offs.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet: (A) Dec L 2-1. (H) Apr L 2-3 - last game at W'dean . BHA champs, HT = 3rd but bombed in p-o final.
C21 total EFL record: P22 . W4 D5 L2 . F11 A7 . W3 D4 L4 . F16 A21 . Pt30 GD-1

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 8 22 C, 6, 22 L1, 4 L2, 9 4 15 10 9 / 6 3 4 L1, 19 17 16 19 5 C, 16 20 P / 18 20 3 18 23 C @ 4/5/24 .
PREM: stayed up - '18, relegated - '19 . C'ship: promo - '17, rel - '01 '24 . L1: promo - '12, rel - '03 . L2: promo - '04.
past managers; Steve Bruce (1999-2000), Lou Macari (00-02), Mick Wadsworth (02-3), Peter Jackson (03-7), Andy Ritchie (07-8), Stan Ternent (2008),
Lee Clark (08-12), Simon Grayson (12-13), Phil Brown (2013), Mark Robins (13-14), Chris Powell (14-15), David Wagner (15-19), Jan Siewert (2019),
Danny Cowley (19-20), Carlos Corberan (20-22), Danny Schofield (2022), Mark Fotheringham (22-23), Neil Warnock (2023), Darren Moore (23-24), Andre Breitenreiter (2024)
Prem: Huddersfield Town joined the elite league (started in 1992) for the 17/18 season.
FA CUP & LEAGUE CUP; finalists - not in the Prem era . LEAGUE TROPHY; finalists - '94, s-f - '02, '11.

C21 background - our 'up' from lg2 (d3) in 00/01, coincided with their 'down' from that run in the C'ship (div1). In League1 (div2) of 01/2, we finished another season as title holders, while they blew it in the play-offs. On-field records from that period since have also been polarised. Both teams dropped in 02/3 to remain a level apart, as Town crashed into that bottom tier. In 03/4 Brighton popped back up again via a day out in Cardiff. Huddersfield immediately regained a lg1 place, winning their own end of season knock-out pay day in Wales. During Seagulls' spell in the C'ship of 04/5 & 05/6, Terriers consolidated 9th & 4th, beaten by Barnsley in p-o s-f. So it is seen, having a state of the art stadium is no guarantee of success. Conversely for BHA, any home was better than no home at all.
In 11/12 Town won the L1 p-o final on penalties 8-7, to regain level-two status since 2001. They beat the odds to rise into the Prem and stay there for 17/18 but fell back again at end of 18/19.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Huddersfield finished in lower mid table in July. Thus the following C'ship season began from mid September. Town finished in the bottom six. Next term 21/22 they took part in p-os, losing in the final. Then 18th. In 23/24 Town were 23rd in the C'ship and rel.

LEYTON ORIENT

League One record from 11/12: 20 7 3 23 L1, 8 24 L2, 13 1 NL, 17 11 13 1 L2, 11 L1 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '23 L2, '19 NL . rel - '15 L1, '17 L2 . p-os - '14 L1 . bottom six - '12 L1.
STATUS; regular tier 3&4 club that once even had designs on the London Stadium post 2012... another pipedream.
MANAGER; Richie Wellens (22-24), previously Matt Harrold (interim), Kenny Jackett (21-22), Jobi McAnuff (2021), Ross Embleton (20-21) .
ground: Brisbane Road 9.2k . nickname: Os . shirt: red.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20 = no fans.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1-2 8-12 . 99/00-00/01 L2, 06/7-10/11 L1 . League Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
Leagues One & Two - once hoped to join Olympians by 2012.
For one reason or another Orient were considered a bogey side before Micky Adams Y2k Withdean revolution. We'd lost three times in div3 (L2) the
previous term when housed at Gillingham and one of those was in FA Cup round1. O's made play-offs and BHA were happy to better 23rd for once.
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (A) Aug W 1-2. (H) Jan L 0-1 . . BHA = 11th, LO = 19th - disappointing for both outfits.
00/01 - under Micky Adams; (H) Sept W 2-0. (A) Mar W 0-2 . BHA = 1st promo L1, LO = play-offs but blew their chances.
Five years later we met in League One. Quite a lot of changes had taken place at the Matchroom Stadium by then during intervening seasons
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) Sep W 4-1. (A) Feb W 1-4 victory. BHA = 18th, LO above the drop zone.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) Oct D 2-2 - on sky TV. (H) Mar D 1-1 - 90+ pen equaliser . BHA = 7th, LO = 14th.
08/9 under Micky Adams; (H) Aug D 0-0 - boring in sleepy sunshine. Under Russ Slade; (A) Mar L lost 2-1 - clouds of doom . BHA = 16th 52pts, LO = 14th 56pts.
9/10 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Dec D 0-0. (A) Feb D 1-1 . . BHA = 13th 59pts, LO = 17th 51pts -survived via Russ Slade.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Jan W 5-0. (A) Feb D 0-0 . BHA = 1st promo, LO = 7th missing L1 p-os.
C21 EFL record: P14. W3 D3 L1 . F12 A3 . W3 D3 L1 . F12 A7 . Pt24 GD+14

NL/EFL from 99/00: 19 5 18 18 19 11 3 L2, 20 14 14 / 17 7 20 7 3 23 L1, 8 24 L2, 13 1 NL / 17 11 13 1 L2, 11 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 3rd L1 '14, worst = 13th NL '18 . promo - '06 '23 L2, '19 NL, p-os - '01 L2, '14 L1 . rel - '15 L1, '17 L2
past managers; Tommy Taylor (1996-2001), Paul Brush (01-3), Martin Ling (03-9), Geraint Williams (09-10), Russell Slade (10-14), Mauro Milanese (14-15), Ian Hendon (15-16), Andy Hassenthaler (2016), Alberto Cavasin (2016), Andy Edwards (2016), Daniel Webb (2017), Omer Riza (2017), Justin Edinburgh (17-19),
Ross Embleton (2019), Carl Fletcher (2019), Ross Embleton (20-21), Jobi McAnuff (2021), Kenny Jackett (21-22)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; s-f - '13 . FA Trophy; finalists - '19.

C21 Info - several years ago, Brighton went up to 'past its sell-by' Brisbane Road, in our original 00/01 promotion season. At the very top of div3, it was Chesterfield who led by 16 points from little old us on 61 points. Leyton Orient were in a play-off slot and also needed results to maintain a viable challenge, hopefully for attaining higher things themselves. Nearly 3000 Brighton fans turned up to double bust their usual away allocation and boost a mediocre gate, where there used to be a 13000 capacity. That first new stand had been built behind the south goal, to replace open terrace earthworks and big plans were afoot to redevelop the rest of their out of date ground. Over those years since, Orient received local authority approval to sort out decrepit north terraces and ancient west stand.
At one stage in proceedings it was known as the not-much-room stadium, when capacity was reduced to 5000 due to major works ahead. Part of the site was sold to a property developer and a nine million pound scheme was launched to transform the old place. During seasons that followed only 700 visitors could be accommodated, so it was just as well BHA were in the Championship and able to visit pukka stadiums on mass. Anyway a sizeable west stand eventually went up and suddenly, a huge banked terrace had become a level car-park. Then later a pukka stand in situ. The biggest surprise to locals was to see low rise blocks erected in each corner, that would have had many a suburban NIMBY foaming profusely at their proverbial rear gates. So it was a case of works in progress as Brighton fans arrived at Matchroom Stadium and surveyed a slightly different scene in east London. Even Coronation Gardens was threatened to be bulldozed - was there no end to this madcap pursuit of sport and leisure, or is that an unsuitable complex question?
In 13/14 Os reached p-os in L1 but the next year dropped into L2 for 15/16. At end of the 16/17 season, amid huge irregularities with new ownership at the club, they were again relegated - to the National League. At end of 18/19 O's regained FL status when champs of Nat Lg.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Leyton Orient's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. Os were in lower midtable. The next L2 season began in September. Os finished in mid table. Next term 21/22 they were 13th. Then champs and promo. In 23/24 Orient were 11th in L1.

LINCOLN

League One record from 11/12: 17 16 14 15 13 1 NL, 7 1 L2, 14 5 17 11 7 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '17 NL, '19 L2 . p-os - '18 L2, '21 L1.
STATUS; lower league regulars for first decade this century but dropped into non league before coming back with a big bang.
MANAGER; Michael Skubala (2023)
previously Mark Kennedy (22-23), Michel Appleton (19-22) .
ground: Sincil Bank 10.1k . nickname: Imps . shirt: red, white stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Falmer years: from 2011 - no league fixtures . FA Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1-2, 99/00-00/01 L2 . FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
League Two - plenty of spuds up the bank.
Red Imps did once get to div2 (L1) when Albion were in their second year ground sharing at Gillingham.
Micky Adams then came to our twin towns in div3 (L2) to keep the faith for as long as it took to elevate into div1 (C'ship).
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (H) 23/11/99 D 2-2. (A) 18/3/00 W 1-3 . BHA = 11th 67pt, LC = 15th 59pt.
00/01 - under Micky Adams; (A) 26/8/00 L 2-0. (H) 10/4/01 W 2-0 . .. BHA = 1st promoted, LC = 18th 51pt.
C21 EFL record: P4 . W1 D1 L0 . F4 A2 . W1 D0 L1 . F3 A3 . Pt7 GD+2

NL/EFL from 99/00: 15 18 22 6 7 6 7 5 15 13 / 20 23 L2, 17 16 14 15 13 1 NL, 7 1 L2 / 14 5 17 11 7 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: promo - '17 NL, '19 L2, p-os - '03 '04 '05 '06 '07 '18 L2, '21 '24 L1, rel - '11 L2.
past managers; John Reames (1998-2000), Phil Stant (00-1), Alan Buckley (01-2), Keith Alexander (02-6), John Schofield (06-7), Peter Jackson (07-9),
Chris Sutton (09-10), Steve Tilson (11-13), Gary Simpson (13-14), Chris Moyses (14-16), Danny Cowley (16-19), Michael Appleton (19-22), Mark Kennedy (22-23)
FA Cup; q-f - '17 . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy: winners - '18, s-f - '01 . FA Trophy; s-f - '17

C21 Info - City had a 'goal 2010' campaign running at Sincil Bank because they wanted to reach the Championship. But they missed promo from League2 p-os on more than one occasion and for 08/9 were merely mid table mediocrity. By 09/10 last time we looked, Imps got to a disappointing but safe 50pts in L2. For 10/11 they went down to the 'Conference' on the last day in 23rd place. In 11/12 thru 16/17 they played in the National League (Conf/Blue Square Prem). Red-imps beat Brighton in FAC4 of 2017 and were promoted back to League Two as champions. They straightaway got to L2 p-os in 17/18 & promoted as champions in 18/19.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March and ended early due to the Covid-19 crisis. Therefore the following L1 season started in September. Imps reached p-os, losing in the final. The following term 21/22 they were in the bottom eight. Then 11th. In 23/24 Lincoln were 7th in L1.

MANSFIELD

League One record from 11/12: 3 1 NL, 11 21 12 12 8 4 21 16 7 8 3 L2 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '24 L2, '13 NL . p-os - '19 '22 L2, '12 NL . bottom six - '15 '20 L2.
STATUS; slipped out of the FL during the noughties but since regained their place among those L2 regulars.
MANAGER; Nigel Clough (20-24), previously Graham Coughlan (19-20) . ground: Field Mill 9.1k . nickname: Stags . shirt: tan, blue trim.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1-2 . 99/00-00/01 L2 . FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
League Two - fans wanted to see more fight.
Stags bounded around in div3 (L2) at Field Mill, while Albion moved from Goldstone to Gillingham, then back to 'temporary' accomodation.
Albion thus kick-started the Withdean era in div3 (L2), fit for the twenty-first century.
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (H) 7/8/99 W 6-0. (A) 1/2/00 L 1-0 . . . . BHA = 11th 67pt, MT = 17th 56pt.
00/01 - under Micky Adams; (A) 16/12/00 L 2-0. (H) 31/3/01 W 2-0 . BHA = 1st promo div2 (L1), MT = 13th 58pt.
C21 EFL record: P4 . W2 D0 L0 . F8 A0 . W0 D0 L2 . F0 A3 . Pt6 GD+5

NL/EFL from 99/00: 17 13 3 L2, 23 L1, 5 13 16 17 23 L2, 12 / 9 13 3 1 NL, 11 21 12 12 8 4 / 21 16 7 8 3 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 23rd L1 '03, worst = 13th NL . promo - '13 NL, '24 '02 L2 . p-os - '12 NL, '04 '19 L2 . rel - '03 L1, '08 L2.
past managers; Paul Cox (11-14), Adam Murray (14-16), Steve Evans (16-18), David Flitcroft (18-19), John Dempster (2019), Graham Coughlan (19-20)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; q-f - '17 . FA Trophy; finalists - '11.

C21 Info - Town came to visit Albion in FA Cup round3 of 07/8 season and deservedly went on to round4. This got 'em some much needed extra dosh because the east midlands club was in crisis. Stags fans wanted the owner out and were watching their League2 eleven staring at relegation to Blue Square Prem. They duly went down, well adrift of safety and facing an uncertain future. In 9/10 Stags were now one of the regular non-league crowd. In 10/11 they finished 13th in Blue Square Premier. They reached p-o in 11/12 (3rd). For 12/13 Mansfield won the BSP (National League) to regain FL status.
Stags were just outside L2 playoffs in 17/18 but inside for 18/19.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic Mansfield's 19/20 L2 season ended during March '20. Town were fourth from bottom. The next L2 season began in September. Town finished just above the bottom third. Next term 21/22 they were 7th and in p-os, losing in the final. Then 8th. In 23/24 Mansfield were 3rd in L2 and promo.

NORTHAMPTON

League One record from 11/12: 20 6 21 12 1 L2, 16 22 L1, 15 7 L2, 22 L1, 4 3 L2, 14 L1 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '16 '20 '23 L2 . relegated - '18 '21 L1 . p-os - '13 '20 '22 L2 . bottom six - '12 '14 L2.
STATUS; league 1 or 2 yo-yo club which currently is on the rise, waiting for the line to pay out.
MANAGER; Jon Brady (21-24), previously Keith Curle (18-21) .
ground: Sixfields 7.8k . nickname: Cobblers . shirt: maroon, white sleeves.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans . Tier 3/4 @ 26/12/20 = no fans.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1-2 8-10 . 99/00 L2, 01/2 06/7-08/9 L1 . League Cup & Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
Leagues One & Two - not that high in the order.
Northampton Town first met Brighton at Withdean in late November 1999, when found in old div3 (L2) after falling from div2 (L1) the season before. Nearly 6000 conglomerated at our newly revamped athletics arena and more would have mixed in but for local restrictions on our capacity. Town won both contests that initial term - they certainly looked the best outfit we'd seen. North'ton went on to go straight back up a flight again but it took Micky Adams' Brighton another year to join them. At least a trip there wasn't too far for Sussex residents, southern Seagulls or midlands exiles north of Watford Gap. Therefore we could come at 'em from all angles of the country.
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (H) Nov L 1-3. (A) Mar L 1-0 . BHA = 16th, NT = 1st promo.
01/2 - under Micky Adams; (A) Sep L 2-0. Under Peter Taylor; (H) Jan W 2-0 . BHA = 1st promo, NT = bottom four.
So we'd marched past them to higher echelons of div1 (Championship). Whilst B'ton floated between League1 and the Championship in the noughties,
N'ampton yo-yo'd alternatively lg1 or lg2. After four seasons it was business as usual.
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; Brighton got four points from encounters. Northampton manager John Gorman said, 'it's only a level higher but there is
so much more football played in this league. Ambitions here are to go further - the Championship is where everybody wants to be'.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) Aug W 2-1 - knew third-tier footy when we saw it. (A) Jan L 1-0 - nite to remember for all the wrong reasons. BHA = 7th, NT = 9th.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (A) Sep D 2-2 - after leading twice. Under Russ Slade; (H) Feb D 1-1 . BHA level pegging, stayed up, NT didn't.
C21 EFL record: P10 . W2 D2 L1 . F7 A6 . W1 D1 L3 . F4 A6 . Pt12 GD-1

EFL from 99/00: 3 L2, 18 20 24 L1, 6 7 2 L2, 14 9 21 L1 / 11 16 20 6 21 12 1 L2, 16 22 L1, 15 / 7 L2, 22 L1, 4 3 L2, 14 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 9th L1 '08, worst = 21st L2 '14 . promo - '00 '06 '16 '20 '23 L2, p-os - '04 '05 '13 '20 L2 . rel - '03 '09 '18 '21 L1.
past managers; Kevin Wilson (1999-2001), Kevan Broadhurst (01-3), Terry Fenwick (2003) Martin Wilkinson (2003), Colin Calderwood (03-6), John Gorman (2006),
Stuart Gray (07-9), Ian Sampson (09-11), Gary Johnson (2011), Aidy Boothroyd (12-13), Chris Wilder (14-16), Rob Page (2016), Justin Edinburgh (2017),
Dean Austin (2018), Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (17-18), Keith Curle (18-21)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; s-f - '04.

C21 Info - in October 2006, Paul Sturrock lost his job making Wednesday into a big club again. Sheff Wed were well beaten 4-0 at Colchester in front of 5000 at an er, Championship venue. The Scot had success with Plymouth and supposedly could handle sleeping giants. He actually ended up back there. And the point is? There are probably more questions than answers. Brighton fans are very familiar with those perpetual managerial merry-go-rounds. The music even stopped here for a while in 06/7, after being a little off-key but a change of gaffer in mid flight had cranked up revs again following a faltering restart. BHA are of course not the only club to appoint a smart new operator. A rough ride on top of League 2 at the end of 05/6 season, saw bosses at both champions Carlisle and runners-up Northampton, leave for bigger and better Champ's carousels. John Gorman who had been circulating at Wycombe Wanderers, made the play-off round-abouts. He might have subsequently gone up with and on to Cumbria, being an ex-player of some repute and well rounded to boot. However, it was Cobblers to all that circus and he became head hurdy-gurdy man sited in south midlands Sixfields. In 9/10 Cobblers finished in top half of L2 but slightly short of being real p-o contenders. For 10/11 & 11/12 they were merely mid to lower table. But in 12/13 reached p-o final, although lost out on promo. Town won the L2 title in 15/16 but quickly returned there at end of 17/18. In 18/19 they finished in solid midtable.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Northampton's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. Town were then in 7th place and took part in p-os during June. They won the final to be promoted back to League One. Therefore the following L1 season started in September. Town were relegated to L2 at the start of May '21. Next term 21/22 they were 4th and in p-os. Then 3rd and promo. In 23/24 Northampton were 14th in L1.

PETERBOROUGH

League One record from 11/12: 18 22 C, 6 9 13 11 / 9 7 6 2 L1, 22 C, 6 4 @ 29/4/24.
C'ship: rel - '13 '22 . L1: promo - '21 . p-os - '14 '20 '23 '24.
STATUS; an outfit forever hopeful of pushing boundaries in East Anglia and beyond. Time will tell - replay that loop!
MANAGER; Darren Ferguson 2023 (19-22), previously Grant McCann (22-23).
ground: London Road 15.3k . nickname: Posh . shirt: blue.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3/4 @ 17/12/20 = no fans.

FALMER years; from 2011. Seasons 1-2 - 11/12-12/13 C'ship.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Aug W 2-0. (A) Jan W 1-2 . . BHA = 10th 66pt. PU = 18th 50pt.
12/13 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Nov W 1-0. (A) Apr D 0-0 . .. BHA = 4th 75pt p-os. PU = 22nd 54pt - relegated.
C'ship record: P4 . W2 D0 L0 . F3 A0 . W1 D1 L0 . F2 A1 . Pt10 GD+4

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1 3 5 10 12 . 99/00 L2, 01/2 03/4 08/9 10/11 L1 . FA Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
Leagues One & Two - gosh, they weren't so much tosh and apparently backed by plenty of dosh.
Peterboro Utd spent three terms in div3 (L2) from 1997, while Albion tried to find a new pitch to replace the old Goldstone.
Seagulls returned home to Withdean in 1999.
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (A) 2/10/99 D 0-0. (H) 26/4/00 D 0-0 . BHA = 11th 67pts, PU = 5th 78pts p-os promo.
01/2 - under Peter Taylor; (H) 21/11/01 D 1-1. (A) 6/4/02 L 1-0 . . . . BHA = 1st promo. PU = 17th 55pts.
03/4 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 1/11/03 D 2-2 - poshibly poached a point. (H) 17/4/04 W 1-0 - prob a piss-take pen . BHA = 4th p-os promo. PU = 18th 52pts.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (A) Oct D 0-0. (H) Jan L 2-4 . BHA stayed up, PU runners-up.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Oct W 0-3. (H) Jan W 3-1 .. BHA title, PU won p-o final.
C21 total EFL record: P14 . W4 D2 L1 . F10 A6 . W3 D4 L0 . F8 A3 . Pt27 GD+9

EFL from 99/00: 5 L2, 12 17 11 18 23 L1, 9 10 2 L2, 2 L1 / 24 C, 4 L1, 18 22 C, 6 9 13 11 9 7 / 6 2 L1, 22 C, 6 4 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 18th C '12, worst = 10th L2 '07 . promo - '00 '08 L2, '09 '11 '21 L1 . rel - '10 '13, '22 C, '05 L1.
past managers; Barry Fry (1996-2005), Mark Wright (05-6), Steve Bleasdale (2006), Keith Alexander (06-7), Darren Ferguson (07-9), Mark Cooper (09-10),
Jim Gannon (2010), Gary Johnson (10-11), Darren Ferguson (11-15), Dave Robertson (2015), Graham Westley (15-16), Grant McCann (16-18),
Steve Evans (18-19), Darren Ferguson (19-22), Grant McCann (22-23)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; winner - '14 '24 . q-f - '18.

C21 Info - in 04/5 United fell back to League2. They bumped around in the fourth tier for a couple of seasons, sometimes with thoughts of making play-offs. Peterboro had plans to upgrade their London Rd venue but it never seemed to get off the ground. Then money came in via a mega-bucks chairman and hey-ho, they suddenly want a new stadium built up the road. It seemed to turn things around on the pitch too. Posh went up from League2 in 07/8 and then again from Lg1 08/9 with back-to-back promotions. But we know how tough it is in the C'ship for innocents abroad. In 9/10, Posh were easily relegated as bottom club. They bounced back immediately but hit the skids again in yo-yo fashion at end of 12/13, for years of tier3 mediocrity. At end of 18/19 Posh just failed by 1pt to reach L1 p-os.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March due to the Covid-19 crisis. Peterboro were then in 6th place but missed out on being part of p-os via the final pt/gm settlement. The next L1 season began in September. Boro were promoted as runners up. Next term 21/22 they were 22nd and relegated. Then 6th. In 23/24 Peterboro were in L1 p-os.

READING

League One record from 11/12: 1 C, 19 P, 7 19 17 3 / 20 20 14 7 21 22 17 @ 29/4/24.
C'ship: promo - '12 . p-os - '17 . bottom six - '15 '18 '19 '22 . rel - '23 . Prem: rel - '13.
STATUS; Royals... but being close to Windsor is no qualifier for maybe regaining membership of the elite.
MANAGER; Ruben Selles (2023), previously Paul Ince (22-23), Veljko Paunovic (20-22), Mark Bowen (19-20).
ground: Madejski Stad 24k . nickname: Royals . shirt: blue & white hoops.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3/4 @ 17/12/20 = no fans.

FALMER years; from 2011. Seasons 1 3-6, 11/12 13/14-16/17 C'ship . FA Cup & EFL Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Dec L 3-0. (H) Apr L 0-1 . . . . . . BHA = 10th 66pt. Reading = 1st 89pt - promoted to Prem.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia; (A) Sep D 0-0. (H) Mar D 1-1 . . BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, Reading = 7th 71pt.
14/15 - Nathan Jones in for Sami Hyypia; (H) D 2-2. Under Chris Hughton (A) Mar L 2-1 . BHA = 20th 47pt, Reading = 19th 50pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Oct D 1-1. (H) Mar W 1-0 .. BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, Reading = 17th 52pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (A) Aug D 2-2. (H) Feb W 3-0 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, Reading = 3rd 85pt p-os
C'ship record: P10 . W2 D2 L1 . F7 A4 . W0 D3 L2 . F4 A8 . Pt11 GD-1

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 3-4 6-7 . 01/2 L1, 02/3 04/5-05/6 C'ship.
Championship & League One - made the best of auto trade in.
Royals were a div1 side at Elm Park when Albion last played at the Goldstone Ground in 1997. The world turned and we met at Withdean
and the Madejski Stad in 01/2 for div2 (L1) and 02/3 in div1 (C). Since then, 04/5 and 05/6 were at Championship level.
01/2 - under Peter Taylor; (H) 11/2/01 W 3-1. (A) 9/3/02 D 0-0 . . .. BHA = 1st 90pt, Reading = 2nd 84pt. Both promoted
02/3 - under Steve Coppell; (H) 30/11/02 L 0-1. (A) 4/4/03 L 2-1 .. BHA = 23rd rel, Reading = 4th 79pt p-os.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 7/8/04 L 3-2 - was ruddy well robbed. (H) 21/3/05 L 0-1 - read all about it . BHA = 20th 51pt, Reading = 7th 70pt.
05/6 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 9/8/05 L 0-2 - always struggling. (A) 10/12/06 L 5-1 - lost the plot . BHA = 24th rel, Reading = 1st promo.
C21 total EFL record: P18 . W3 D2 L4 . F10 A9 . W1 D4 L4 . F9 A17 . Pt18 GD-7

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 10 3 2 L1, 4 9 7 1 C, 8 18 P, 4 / 9 5 1 C, 19 P, 7 19 17 3 20 20 / 14 7 21 22 C, 17 L1 @ 4/5/24
Prem: top ten - '07, rel - '08 '13 . C'ship: promo - '06 '12, rel - '23 . L1: promo - '02.
past managers; Alan Pardew (1999-2003), Steve Coppell (03-9), Brendan Rodgers (2009), Brian McDermott (09-13), Nigel Adkins (13-14),
Steve Clarke (14-15), Brian McDermott (15-16), Jaap Stam (16-18), Paul Clement (2018), Jose Gomes (18-19), Mark Bowen (19-20),
Veljko Paunovic (20-22), Paul Ince (22-23),
Prem: Reading initially joined the elite league (started in 1992) for 06/07.
FA Cup; s-f - '15 . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; q-f -'01 '02.

C21 Background - Steve Coppell over-achieved with Royals since going there in October 2003. Unbelievably he got 'em to 8th in 06/7, just o/s Europe Cup spots. But who would begrudge him success in a small provincial town on the M4 to London? If the Falmer saga had been written differently in the stars, Adams, Taylor or Coppell might have remained doing business for sleeping giant Seagulls. These men all quickly went fully professional after a makeshift life around north Brighton suburbs.
Madejski's financial backing allowed Royal Berkshire fanatical footy on the site of an old refuse tip. For a while they lived the dream. Money talked and it was much better than Elm Park days - even if McGhee was supposed to be the Man then. But you need mega-bucks to maintain an elite life-style and in 07/8 came the crash. As they said at celebrating Fulham, close but no cigar. Coppell parted company after failing to get promo thru C'ship p-o phases in 08/9. In 9/10, Royals were just about top half of C'ship table. They reached p-o final in 10/11 but got beat. It happened again in 16/17 - lost on penalties! At end of 18/19 Royals were again closer to the drop zone than even a midtable berth. Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. Reading finished in mid table in July. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September. Royals completed just outside p-os. During Nov '21 Reading were deducted -6pts for EFL transgressions. At end of 21/22 they were 21st. Next term they were again docked 6pts, finishing 22nd and rel. In 23/24 Reading were 17th in L1.

ROTHERHAM

League One record from 11/12: 10 2 L2, 4 L1, 21, 21, 24 C / 4 L1, 22 C, 2 L1, 23 C, 2 L1, 19 24 C @ 4/5/24.
recent promo - '13 L2, '14 '18 '20 '22 L1 . rel - '17 '19 '21 '24 C.
STATUS; moved hither & thither but ups & downs have not ended yet a while.
MANAGER; Steve Evans (2024)
previously Leam Richardson (23-24), Matt Taylor (22-23), Paul Warne (17-22) .
ground: New York Stadium 12k . nickname: Millers . shirt: red, white sleeves.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years; from 2011. Seasons 4-6, 14/15-16/17 C'ship.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (H) Oct D 1-1. Under Chris Hughton; (A) Apr L 1-0 . BHA = 20th 47pt, RU = 21st 46pt.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Sep W 2-1 . (A) Jan L 2-0 . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, RU = 21st 49pt.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Aug W 3-0. (A) Mar W 0-2 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promoted, RU = 24th 23pt relegated
C'ship record: P6 . W2 D1 L0 . F6 A2 . W1 D0 L2 . F2 A3 . Pt10 GD+3

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1 4 6 8 . 99/00 L2, 02/3 04/5 C'ship, 06/7 L1.
Championship, Leagues One & Two - an uphill struggle somewhere up north off the M1.
Millers had fallen to div3 when Albion were saying goodbye to the Goldstone Ground in 1997. The Withdean Era revolution began in div3 (L2) two years later.
Two years after that BHA joined United in div1 (C'ship). A further two years followed before we met there again. Two years later we were back in League One.
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (A) 28/12/99 L 1-3. (H) 15/4/00 D 1-1 . BHA = 11th, RU = 2nd auto promo.
02/3 - under Martin Hinshelwood; (A) 21/9/02 L 1-0. Under Steve Coppell; (H) 8/3/03 W 2-0 . BHA = 23rd rel, RU = 15th 59pt.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 4/12/04 W 1-0 - they were hams. (A) 30/4/05 L 1-0 - their wrath er, hammed up . BHA = 20th, RU = 24th rel.
06/7 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 5/8/06 L 1-0 . under Dean Wilkins; (H) 3/2/07 D 0-0 . BHA = 18th, RU = 23rd rel.
C21 total EFL record: P14 . W4 D3 L0 . F10 A3 . W4 D0 L3 . F7 A5 . Pt27 GD+9

EFL from 99/00: 2 L2, 2 L1, 21 15 17 24 C), 20 23 L1, 9 14 / 5 9 10 2 L2, 4 L1, 21 21 24 C, 4 L1, 22 C / 2 L1, 23 C, 2 L1, 19 24 C @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 15th C '03, worst = 14th L2 '09 . promo - '00 '13 L2, '01 '14 '18 '20 '22 L1 . rel - '05 '17 '19 '21 '24 C, '07 L1.
past managers; Ronnie Moore (1997-2005), Mick Harford (2005), Alan Knill (05-7), Mark Robins (07-9), Ronnie Moore (09-11), Andy Scott (11-12),
Steve Evans (12-15), Neil Redfearn (15-16), Neil Warnock (2016), Alan Stubbs (2016), Kenny Jackett (2017), Paul Warne (17-22), Matt Taylor (22-23), Leam Richardson (23-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; winner '22 . s-f - '09 '14.

C21 Info - In 07/8 Rotherham suffered a 10point penalty for being in Administration. In the event they only ended one place lower than 8th, but still woulda missed out on Lg2 play-offs. For Millers fans, yet again it was all a bit of a grind. In 08/9 they further got 17pts knocked off but still finished in mid table. In 9/10 Millers reached play-offs in L2, playing at Don Valley Stadium. For 10/11 they just missed out on p-o's in 9th. And again in 11/12 but United played in the New York stad next.
For 12/13 they won auto promo as L2 runners-up. In 13/14 Utd got to L1 p-os and won the final on pens to gain promo to tier two.
RU were back in L1 for 17/18 - returning again to the Championship via p-o final victory. But at end of 18/19 Millers fell down to L1 once more.
In 19/20 all leagues were suspended during March due to the Covid-19 crisis. Rotherham were then 2nd L1 and promoted as runners up when the season ended early. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September. Millers continued to yo-yo, going straight back into L1. The following term 21/22 they were promoted back to the C'ship as runners up. Then 19th. In 23/24 United were 24th in the C'ship and rel.

SHREWSBURY

League One record from 11/12: 2 L2, 16 23 L1, 2 L2, 20 18 3 18 16 17 18 12 19 @ 28/4/24.
recent promo - '12 '15 L2 . p-os - '18 L1 . rel - '14 L1 . bottom six - '16 L1.
STATUS; been up & down like a fiddlers elbow at both their venues. Play major & minor tunes recently.
MANAGER; Gareth Ainsworth (2024)
previously Paul Hurst (2024), Matt Taylor (23-24), Steve Cotterill (20-23), Sam Ricketts (18-20) . ground: New Meadow 9.8k . nickname: Shrews . shirt: tan, blue stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1-2, 99/00-00/01 L2 . FA Cup, League Cup & Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
League Two - operating in a flood of expectation.
Shrews dropped from div2 in 1997 as Albion vacated the Goldstone. Micky Adams arrived nearly two terms later
to take BHA out of div3 (L2) and compete at div2 (L1) in the Withdean era.
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (H) 19/10/99 W 1-0. (A) 29/4/01 W 1-2 . BHA = 11th 67pt, ST = 22nd 40pt.
00/01 - under Micky Adams; (H) 25/11/00 W 4-0. (A) 3/5/01 L 3-0 . . . BHA = 1st promo L1, ST = 15th 55pt.
C21 EFL record: P4 . W2 D0 L0 . F5 A0 . W1 D0 L 1. F2 A4 . Pt9 GD+3

NL/EFL from 99/00: 22 15 9 24 L2, 3 NL, 21 10 7 18 7 / 12 4 2 L2, 16 23 L1, 2 L2, 20 18 3 18 / 16 17 18 12 19 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 3rd L1 '18, worst = 3rd NL '04 . promo - '04 NL, '12 '15 L2, p-os - '07 '09 '11 L2, '18 L1 . rel - '03 L2, '14 L1.
past managers; Kevin Ratcliffe (1999-2003), Jimmy Quinn (03-4), Gary Peters (04-8), Paul Simpson (08-10), Graham Turner (11-13), Mike Jackson (13-14),
Micky Mellon (14-16), Paul Hurst (16-18), John Askey (2018), Sam Ricketts (18-20), Steve Cotterill (20-23), Matt Taylor (23-24), Paul Hurst (2024)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; finalists - '18, s-f - '07, '09.

C21 Info - Gay Meadow experienced Conference football in 03/4, before quickly returning to FL status. In 07/8, Town moved to brand spanking New Meadow, a 10k venue that hopefuly won't be flooded out - by water at least. They got done in the 08/9 p-o final to remain in League2. For 09/10 Shrews just about finished in top half of the table. In 10/11 the Shropshire outfit got as far as p-o phases - but no cigar again. But by 11/12 they made it up to L1 at long last as L2 runners-up. In 13/14 Shrews were relegated back to L2. But bounced back for 15/16. After 17/18 they got to L1 p-os but slumped in 18/19 2pts above the d-z.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March and ended early due to the Covid-19 crisis. The next L1 season began in September. Shrews ended in the bottom eight. The following term 21/22 they repeated that finish. Then 12th. In 23/24 Shrewsbury were 19th in L1.

STEVENAGE

League One record from 11/12: 6 18 24 L1, 6 18 10 16 10 24* 14 21 2 L2, 9 L1 @ 29/4/24. * see footnotes.
recent rel - '14 L1 . promo - '23 L2, p-os - '15 L2.
STATUS; gained EFL fixtures eventually but it took them to a whole new level, which is hard to maintain consistently.
MANAGER; Alex Revell (2024)
previously Steve Evans (22-24), Paul Tidsdale (21-22), Robbie O'Keefe (caretaker), Alex Revell (20-21) .
Ground: Broadhall Way 7.8k . Nickname: Boro . Shirt: white, red stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 . Tier 3/4 @ 17/12/20 no fans.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings . Withdean era - from 1999 to 2011, no meetings.

NL/EFL from 99/00: 10 7 11 12 8 5 6 8 6 5 / 1 NL, 6 L2, 6 18 24 L1, 6 18 10 16 10 / 24* 14 21 2 L2, 9 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL best = 6th L1 '12, worst = 12th Conf '03 . promo - '10 Conf, '11, '23 L2, p-os - '12 L1, '15 L2 . rel - '14 L1.
past managers; Graham Westley (03-6), Mark Stimson (06-7), Peter Taylor (07-8), Graham Westley (08-11), Gary Smith (11-13), Graham Westley (13-15),
Teddy Sherringham (15-16), Darren Sarll (16-18), Dino Maamria (18-19), Mark Sampson (2019), Graham Westley (19-20), Alex Revell (20-21),
Paul Tidsdale (21-22), Steve Evans (22-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; s-f - '14 . FA Trophy; winners - '07 & '09, finalists - '02 & '10.

C21 Info - Boro were in the Conference (NL) during the nineties but were denied the eventual climb into League Two because of ground issues. Following improvements the non-league outfit then attained back to back promotions in 09/10 & 10/11, reaching L1 p-o for 11/12. They were relegated back to L2 in 13/14.
At end of 18/19 Boro just missed p-os.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Stevenage's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. * Boro were bottom of the table but not relegated to nat lg on appeal - see Macclesfield. The next L2 season began in September. They finished in mid table. Next term 21/22 they were 21st. Then 2nd and promo. In 23/24 Stevenage were 9th in L1.

STOCKPORT

League One record from 11/12: 16 21 NL, 14 11 9 8 5 1 NLN, 7 3 1 NL, 4 1 L2 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '24 L2, '22 NL, '19 NLN . p-os - '23 L2, '21 NL, '18 NLN . rel - '13 NL . * see footnotes below.
STATUS; a lev2 outfit at turn of the century but steady decline since into regular non league.
Manager; Dave Challinor (21-24), previously Simon Rusk (2021), Jim Gannon (20-21) .
ground: Edgeley Park 10.8k . nickname: Hatters . shirt: blue.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20,

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 5 10-11, 03/4 08/9-09/10 L1.
League One - down the canal, or is it up?
Hatters were promoted to div1 (C'ship) in 1997 when Albion just maintained league status but lost the Goldstone. In the Withdean era,
both clubs swapped places for 02/3, when we'd also got to level2 for a single season. After that it was noughties meetings at League One (div2).
Steve Coppell left W'dean by early Oct 2003 and later campaigns also saw changes of Seagulls managers.
03/4 - under caretaker; (H) 25/11/03 L 0-1 - we'd stumbled, stupified.
03/4 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 28/2/04 D 1-1 - took stock of p-o pos .
BHA = 4th p-os promo C'ship, SC = 19th 52pts.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (A) Nov L 2-0. Under Russ Slade; (H) May W 1-0 . BHA = 16th, SC = 18th - in administration.
09/10 - under Russ Slade; (H) Aug L 2-4. Under Gus Poyet; (A) Jan D 1-1 . . . BHA = 13th 59pts, SC = 24th 25pts rel.
C21 EFL record: P6 . W1 D0 L2 . F3 A5 . W0 D2 L1 . F2 A4 . Pt5 GD -4

NL/EFL from 99/00: 17 19 24 C, 14 19 24 L1, 22 8 4 L2, 18 / 24 L1, 24 L2, 16 21 NL, 14 11 9 8 5 1 NLN / 7 3 1 NL, 4 1 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 17th C '00, worst = 14th NLN '14 . promo - '24 '08 L2, '22 NL, '19 NLN . rel - '02 C, '05 '10 L1, '11 L2, '14 NL
past managers; Alan Kilner (1999-2001), Carlton Palmer (01-3), Sammy McIlroy (03-4), Chris Turner (04-5), Jim Gannon (05-9), Gary Ablett (09-10),
Paul Simpson (10-11), Ray Mathias (2011), Dietmar Hamman (2011), Jim Gannon (11-13), Alan Lord (14-15), Neil Young (15-16), Michael Flynn (2016),
Jim Gannon (16-17) & (20-21), Simon Rusk (2021).

C21 Info - at end of 04/5 Edgeley Park was shocked when County fell into League2. Like other FL clubs, they share with a Rugby team, so there was always some dosh thru the gates. About time they sorted the open Railway end if hoping to emulate Albion's Falmer ambitions. Stockport were promoted from League2 in 07/8 via play-offs. For 10/11, County dropped into Conference non-league football when bottom of L2. *They fell again to BSN (National League North) in 12/13.
At end of 18/19 Hatters won NLN as outright champions. County were 7th in the div when the Nat Lg finished prematurely during March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The next NL term began in October. They got into p-os. Next term 21/22 they were champs. Then 4th, losing in the L2 p-o final on pens. In 23/24 Stockport were 1st in L2 and promo.

WIGAN

League One record from 11/12: 15 18 P, 5 23 C, 1 L1, 23 C / 1 L1, 18 23 C, 20 1 L1, 24 C, 12 L1 @ 29/4/24.
recent Prem: relegated - '13 . C'ship: relegated - '15 '17 '20 . L1: promo - '16 '18 '22, rel - '23.
STATUS; one time elite members, the northwest outfit merely has wild aspirations to regain top tier.
MANAGER; Shaun Maloney (2023), previously Kolo Toure (22-23), Leam Richardson (20-22) .
ground: DW Stad 25k . nickname: Latics . shirt: blue, white stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years; from 2011. Seasons 3-4 6, 13/14-14/15 16/17 C'ship.
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia: (A) Nov W 0-1. (H) Feb L 1-2 . . BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, WA = 5th 73pt.
14/15 - under Sami Hyypia; (H) Nov W 1-0. Under Chris Hughton; (A) Apr L 2-1 . BHA = 20th 47pt, WA = 23rd 39pt rel.
16/17 - under Chris Hughton, (A) Oct W 0-1. (H) Apr W 2-1 . BHA = 2nd 93pt promo, WA = 23rd 42pt relegated.
C'ship record: P6 . W2 D0 L1 . F4 A3 . W2 D0 L1 . F3 A2 . Pt9 GD+2

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 3 6 . 01/2 L1, 04/5 C'ship.
Championship & League One - one man's dream, not many takers.
Latics won div3 (L2) when Albion waved goodbye to the Goldstone Ground in 1997. They waited in the third tier (L1) for us to catch up.
01/2 - under Micky Adams; (H) 18/8/01 W 2-1. Under Peter Taylor; (A) 12/1/02 W 0-3 . BHA = 1st promo C, WA = 10th 64pt.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 21/8/04 L 3-0 - woefully worked over. (H) 15/3/05 L 2-4 - beat inside five minutes . BHA = 20th, WA = 2nd 87pt promoted.
C21 total EFL record: P10 . W3 D0 L2 . F8 A8 . W2 D0 L3 . F3 A8 . Pt15 GD-5

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 4 6 10 1 L1, 7 2 C, 10 17 14 11 / 16 16 15 18 P, 5 23 C, 1 L1, 23 C, 1 L1, 18 / 22 C, 20 1 L1, 24 C, 12 L1 @ 4/5/24
Prem: best = 10th '06, worst = 18th '13 . top ten - '06 . stayed up - '07 '10 '11 '12, relegated - '13 .
C'ship: promo - '05, rel - '15 '17 '20 '23 . L1: promo - '03 '16 '18 '22.
past managers; John Benson (1999-2000), Bruce Rioch (00-1), Steve Bruce (2001), Paul Jewell (01-7), Chris Hutchings (2007), Steve Bruce (07-9),
Roberto Martinez (09-13), Owen Coyle (2013), Uwe Rosler (13-14), Malky Mackay (14-15), Gary Caldwell (15-16), Warren Joyce (16-17),
Graham Barrow (2017), Paul Cook (17-20), Leam Richardson (2020), John Sheridan (2020), Leam Richardson (20-22), Kolo Toure (22-23)
Prem: Wigan Athletic first joined the elite league (started in 1992) for 05/06.
FA Cup; winners - '13, s-f - '14, q-f - '18 . EFL Cup; finalists - '06, q-f - '11 . League Trophy; s-f - '16 . Europa League: group stage - '13.

C21 Info - Wigan Athletic did survive in the Prem. The peception was they'd always struggle but in 05/6 were 10th. Then of course second seasonitis crashed in and for 06/7, only held on to elite status by goal difference. But during the following 3 year period 07/8 thru 9/10, Latics were several points clear of the drop zone - so up yours, underfunded pretenders from the Championship. At very end of 10/11 they repeated the great escape by getting three away points from their closing fixture.
In 12/13 luck finally ran out for continued existence in the Prem. Then they dropped into L1 before returning to the C'ship in 16/17 - only to be relegated straight away. But yo-yo'd up again in 17/18. At end of 18/19 Latics held a lower order berth.
Due to the Covid-19 crisis the EFL was suspended during March '20. As a result, Latics entered administration in July with a deduction of 12 points and relegated. The next L1 season began in September. Athletic just stayed up. The following term 21/22 Wigan were champions of L1. Then 24th and rel. In 23/24 Wigan were 12th in L1.

WREXHAM

League One record from 11/12: 2 5 17 11 8 13 10 4 20 8 2 1 NL, 2 L2 @ 29/4/24. * * * see footnotes.
promo - '24 L2, '23 NL . recent p-os - '12 '13 '19 '22 NL . bottom six - '20 NL.
STATUS; an EFL unit who dropped into non league and stayed there.
MANAGER; Phil Parkinson (21-24), previously Dean Keates (19-21) .
ground: Racecourse Ground 10.7k . nickname: Red Dragons . shirt: red.
Covid: Welsh restrictions 27/12/21 . relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . Welsh equivalent of lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3/4/5 = no fans.

Falmer years: from 2011 - no league meetings . FA Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
Withdean era: from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 3 5 - 01/2 03/4 L1.
League One - took a punt at the Racecourse on dodgy ground.
Robins (latterly Red Dragons) were constant div2 (L1) players while Albion rose from depths of div3 (L2) in Micky Adams first Withdean revolution from 1999.
01/2 - under Micky Adams; (A) 14/9/01 W 1-2. Under Peter Taylor; (H) 23/2/04 D 0-0 . BHA = 1st promo, Wr'xm = 23rd 43pt rel.
03/4 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 29/11/03 W 2-0 - wet willy welshers. (A) 8/5/04 W 0-2 - walked Wales wild side . BHA = 4th p-o promo div1, Wr'xm = 13th 60pt.
C21 EFL record: P4 . W1 D1 L0 . F2 A0 . W2 D0 L0 . F4 A1 . Pt10 GD+5

NL/EFL from 99/00: 11 10 23 L1, 3 L2, 13 22 L1, 13 19 24 L2, 10 / 11 4 2 5 17 11 8 13 10 4 / 20 8 2 1 NL, 2 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 10th L1 '01, worst = 17th NL '14 . promo - '24 '03 L2, '23 NL . p-os - '11 '12 '13 '19 '22 NL . rel - '02 '05 L1, '08 L2.
past managers; Brian Flynn (1989-2001), Denis Smith (01-07), Brian Little (07-08), Dean Saunders (08-11), Andy Morrell (11-14), Kevin Wilkin (14-15),
Gary Mills (15-16), Dean Keates (16-18), Sam Rickets (2018), Graham Barrow (2018), Bryan Hughes (2019)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; winners - '05 . FA Trophy; winners - '13, finalists - '15 '22.

C21 Info - in 04/5 Wrexham went down to League2, while Brighton survived another year in the Championship. The Racecourse Ground was rocked to its turf when the club received the first 10 point deduction for going into Administration. It was always going to be hard to win back viable status. In 07/8 this north Wales club fell into the Conference for non-league football. In 10/11, '11/12 & 12/13 Wrexham were in National League (Conf/Blue Square Prem) play-offs. At end of 18/19 Robins got to p-os again. They were 20th in the div when the Nat Lg finished prematurely during March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The next NL term began in October. Next term 21/22 they were 2nd and in p-os again. But were NL champs in 22/23. In 23/24 Wrexham were 2nd in L2 and promo.

WYCOMBE

League ONE record from 11/12: 21 L1, 15 22 4 13 9 3 L2, 17 8 L1, 22 C, 6 9 10 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '18 L2, '20 L1 . rel - '21 C, '12 L1 . p-os - '15 L2, '20 '22 L1.
STATUS; regular lower league fare, where the outstanding thing is the natural beauty of the area. Got to level2 for first time in '20.
MANAGER; Matt Bloomfield (2023), previously Gareth Ainsworth (12-23).
ground: Adams Park 10k . nickname: Chairboys . shirt: dark & light blue.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3/4 @ 17/12/20 = no fans.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 3 5 11 - 01/2 03/4 09/10 L1 . FA Cup & League Trophy - see WE previous encounters.
League One - down a dead end in the AONB.
Chairboys were regular div2 (L1) before and during beginning of the Withdean era.
01/2 - under Micky Adams; (A) 25/9/01 D 1-1. Under Peter Taylor; (H) 5/3/02 W 4-0 . BHA = 1st promo, WW = 11th 64pts.
03/4 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 26/12/03 W 4-0 - winter wonderland. (A) 7/3/04 D 1-1 - stadium beautiful demo-land. BHA = 4th p-o winners, WW = 24th 37pt rel.
09/10 - under Russ Slade; (H) Sept W 1-0. Under Gus Poyet; (A) Dec W 2-5 . BHA = 13th 59pts, WW = 22nd 45pts rel.
C21 EFL record: P6 . W3 D0 L0 . F9 A0 . W1 D2 L0 . F7 A4 . Pt 14 GD+12

EFL from 99/00: 12 13 11 18 24 L1, 10 6 12 7 3 L2 / 22 L1, 3 L2, 21 L1, 15 22 4 13 9 3 L2, 17 / 8 L1, 22 C, 6 9 10 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 6th L1 '22, worst = 22nd L2 '14 . promo - '20 L1, '09 '11 '18 L2 . p-os - '06 '08 '15 L2, '22 L1 . rel - '21 C, '04 '10 '12 L1.
past managers; Lawrie Sanchez (1999-2003), Tony Adams (03-4), John Gorman (04-6), Paul Lambert (06-8), Peter Taylor (08-9),
Gary Waddock (09-12), Gareth Ainsworth (12-23)
FA Cup; s-f - '01 . EFL Cup; s-f - '07 . League Trophy; final - '24 . s-f - '17.

C21 Info - Brighton fans held a Falmer protest demo inside Adams Park after the L1 game in 2004. Red tape concerning AONB development had long before also been experienced by Wanderers. They went down but stopped the rot as Albion struggled in the Championship. Wycombe almost bounced back in 07/8 season, beaten in p-os from a tight k-o stage. In 08/9 they were 3rd in Lg2 and got auto promo by goal difference. For 10/11 Wanderers got 3rd spot in L2 and auto promo.
But they dropped back after one term. They just beat the drop to non-league in 13/14. Chairboys regained promotion to L1 in 17/18, retaining status there for 18/19.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March due to the Covid-19 crisis. Wycombe were then 8th in the div but later elevated to 3rd under the pt/gm settlement. Chairboys next took part in L1 p-os during July, gaining elevation to the Championship via the final. Therefore the following C'ship season started in September.
But Chairboys went straight back down to L1. The following term 21/22 they reached p-os but were beaten in the final. Then 9th. In 23/24 Wycombe were 10th in L1.

LEAGUE TWO

ACCRINGTON

League Two record from 11/12: 14 18 15 17 4 13 1 L2, 14 17 11 12 23 L1, 17 L2 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '18 L2 . p-os - '16 L2 . rel - '23 L1
STATUS; a name in association football from early professional days of yore and reborn in the 21st century.
MANAGER; John Doolan (2024), previously John Coleman (14-24) .
ground: Wham Stadium 5.4k . nickname: Accy . shirt: red.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings. Withdean era - from 1999 to 2011, no meetings.

NL/EFL from 99/00: 1 9 6 1 NP, 10 10 1 NL, 20 17 16 / 15 5 14 18 15 17 4 13 1 L2, 14 / 17 11 12 23 L1, 17 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL; best = 11th L1 '21, worst = 10th NL '04 '05 . promo - '06 NL, '18 L2, p-os - '11 '16 L2 . rel - '23 L1
past managers; John Coleman (1999-2012), Paul Cook (2012), Leam Richardson (12-3), James Beattie (13-14), Paul Stephenson (interim 2014),
John Coleman (14-24).

Info - old sixties div4 side Stanley, finally returned to pro football in 2006 after being Conference champions. They'd won the Northern Premier in 2003. Accrington rose again, from depths of the Lancashire Combination way back in 1970. The small Lancs outfit reached L2 playoffs in 2011 & 2016 & Stanley were L2 champions in 17/18. At end of 18/19 they got to L1 midtable.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March and ended early due to the Covid-19 crisis. The next L1 season started in September. Acc finished in mid table. The following term 21/22 they were again mid table. Then 23rd and rel. In 23/24 Accrington were 17th in L2.

BARROW

League Two record from 13/14: 11 1 NLN, 11 7 20 11 1 NL, 21 22 9 8 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '15 NLN, '20 NL . bottom six - '18 NL, '21 L2.
STATUS; last century a Football League club at 4th tier but shuffled between levels 5&6 for first two decades of C21. Elevated to EFL in 2020.
Manager; tba
previously Pete Wild (22-24), Phil Brown (2022), Mark Cooper (21-22), Rob Kelly (interim 2021), Michael Jolley (20-21) .
ground: Holker Street 5k . nickname: Bluebirds . shirt: blue, white trim.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans.

Falmer years from 2011 & Withdean era from 1999 - no meetings.

NL/EFL from 99/00: North Prem 99-04, NLN 04-08, NL 08-13), 11 1 NLN, 11 7 20 11 1 NL, 21 22 9 8 L2 @ 4/5/24.
*** promo - '20 NL champs . FA Trophy winners 2010.
past managers: Pete Wild (22-24), Phil Brown (2022), Mark Cooper (21-22), Rob Kelly (interim 2021), Michael Jolley (20-21), David Dunn (2020), Ian Evatt (2018-20), Adrian Pennock (17-18), Micky Moore (2017), Paul Cox (15-17),
Darren Edmonson (13-15), David Bayliss (07-13).
Footnote: a northwest historical FL club who competed for decades in lowest divisions during the latter 20th century.
Barrow led the division in March 2020 when the nat lg season ended prematurely due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Promoted subsequently to League Two by NL clubs consent. The next L2 season began in September. Barrow finished in the bottom four. Next term 21/22 they were 22nd. Then 9th. In 23/24 Barrow were 8th in L2.

BRADFORD

League Two record from 11/12: 18 7 L2, 11 7 5 5 11 24 L1, 9 15 14 6 9 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '13 L2 . rel - '19 L1 . p-os - '16 '17 L1, '23 L2.
STATUS; a historic northern club with record at Prem level this century but a lower league outfit these days.
MANAGER; Graham Alexander (2023)
previously Mark Hughes (22-23), Derek Adams (21-22), Conor Sellars & Mark Trueman (20-21), Stuart McCall (2020) .
ground: Valley Parade 25k . nickname: Bantams . shirt: maroon, yellow stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 4 8 . 02/3 C'ship, 06/7 L1.
Championship & League One - Bantams bombed.
Brighton's history with Bradford is a little limited in the Withdean era, initially being restricted to fixtures for a campaign when both were in div1 (C'ship).
Prior to then, City had reached Y2k Premiership but returned, while Albion were on a roll, rising from div3 (League Two) in two years.
02/3 - under Steve Coppell; (H) 2/11/02 W 3-2. (A) 15/2/03 L 1-0 . BHA = 23rd 45pts rel L1, BC = 19th 52pts.
Brighton dropped to League 1 under Steve Coppell, having failed to beat other relegation threatened sides, bizarrely bar Bradford. We swapped places for 2004 season start as City fell on hard times while Albion under Mark McGhee tried to re-establish in the Championship. Alas Seagulls were punching above their weight and fell back to L1 in 2006.
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) 4/11/06 L 2-1. (H) 14/4/07 L 0-1 . BHA = 18th 52pts, BC = 22nd 47pts relegated L2.
It's come to owt for remotely staying separated now, apart from a dis-similar post code.
C21 EFL record: P4 . W1 D0 L1 . F3 A3 . W2 D0 L0 F3 A1 . Pt9 GD+2

Prem/EFL from 99/00: 17 20 P, 15 19 23 C, 11 11 22 L1, 10 9 / 14 18 18 7 L2, 11 7 5 5 11 24 L1 / 9 15 14 6 9 L2 @ 4/5/24
Prem: stayed up - '00, relegated - '01 . C'ship: rel - '04 . L1: pos - '16 '17, rel - '07 '19 . L2: promo - '13.
past managers; Paul Jewell (1998-2000), Jim Jefferies (00-1), Nicky Law (01-3), Bryan Robson (03-4), Colin Todd (04-7), Stuart McCall (07-10),
Peter Taylor (10-11), Peter Jackson (2011), Phil Parkinson (11-16), Stuart McCall (16-18), Simon Grayson (2018), Michael Collins (2018),
David Hopkin (18-19), Gary Bowyer (19-20), Stuart McCall (2020), Conor Sellars (2021), Derek Adams (21-22), Mark Hughes (22-23)
Prem: Bradford City reached the elite league (started in 1992) for 99/00 & 00/01 seasons.
FA Cup; q-f - '15 . EFL Cup; finalists - '13 . League Trophy; s-f - '10 '12 '13, q-f - '17 . UEFA Cup; s-f - '01

C21 Background Info - Colin Todd took over at Valley Parade in the summer of 2004. He is remembered as a seventies England and Derby defender of some class. Brian Clough desperately wanted a quality player, to make his useful midlands outfit national champions and paid 175k to Sunderland for Todd to make it eventually happen. Thirty or so years later, manager Todd was also promised money to spend -with his immediate aim to regain Championship status for Bradford. Clough had hacked Derby to pieces before rebuilding and then spending his way to further success. Todd had a clear-out in similar fashion at the end of 05/6 term. Clough didn't totally believe in experience over youth and Todd was more or less left with both young and old, with a gap between. In something like that situation, Brighton bottomed-out once McGhee's 'budget cuts' took effect - post relegation that May '06. Failing to plug a hole in terms of squad numbers, points total and ultimately league position, has an unfortunate price many managers pay for with their job. A 'sit vac' sign on an empty desk in a club office, is testimony to getting it wrong with the Chairman's money. Clough was once a young boss who went a long way, Todd was down the road but still to prove he could cut it big time. Dean Wilkins set out on his journey and like these two previously, was handed a mission. He had vision, knew his own mind and went his own way. He was sacked after a 7th place finish o/s p-os in 07/8.
Bradford ended up in League2 and missed p-o action in 08/9 by a couple of points and were mid table in 9/10. That May was the 25th anniversary of the devastating fire that destroyed part of Bradford's ground. For 10/11 & 11/12 Bantams finished 18th in L2. But in 12/13 they got promotion to L1 via play-offs. They were twice in p-os (15/16 & 16/17) in years to 17/18 but next fell into L2 again at end of 18/19.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Bradford's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. City were 4pts off p-os. The next L2 season began in September. Bantams finished in mid table. Next term 21/22 they were 14th. Then 6th. In 23/24 Bradford were 9th in L2.

BROMLEY

League Two record from 15/16: 14 10 9 12 13 7 10 7 3 NL @ 30/4/24.
recent promo - '24 NL, p-os - '21 '23 NL.
STATUS; rose from baseline of lower level7 into the pyramid and kept climbing.
Manager; Andy Woodman (21-24), previously Neil Smith (16-21) .
ground: Hayes Lane 5k . nickname: Ravens . shirt: white, black trim.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20.

NL/EFL from 06/7: 2 Isth P, 11 13 12 11 17 15 3 1 NLS, 14 10 9 12 13 7 10 7 3 NL @ 4/5/24.
recent mngr: Mark Golberg (15-16).
FA Trophy: winners '22, finalists '18.

Falmer Years from 2011 & Withdean Era from 1999 - no meetings.
Footnote: Bromley were 13th in the div when the Nat League was ended prematurely during March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The next NL season began in October. They got into p-os. Next term 21/22 they were 10th. Then 7th. In 23/24 Bromley were 3rd in NL and won p-o final on pens.

CARLISLE

League Two record from 11/12: 8 17 22 L1, 20 10 6 10 11 18 10 20 5 L2, 24 L1 @ 29/4/24.
recent rel - '24 '14 L1 . p-os - '17 L2, promo - '23 L2 . bottom six - '15 L2.
STATUS; this century has been a struggle as lower league fodder in that harsh EFL environment of the northwest.
MANAGER; Mike Williamson (2024)
previously Paul Simpson (22-24), Keith Millen (21-22), Gavin Skelton (caretaker), Chris Beech (19-21) .
ground: Brunton Park 18k . nicknames: Cumbrians . shirt: dark blue.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1-2 8-12 . 99/00-00/01 L2, 06/7-10/11 L1.
Leagues One & Two - gonna get higher if it kills 'em...
While Micky Adams' Brighton strived to turn a Withdean homecoming div3 (L2) season into a bid to launch for promotion, Carlisle United just struggled.
And so it went kinda up & down for both clubs throughout those troubled noughties.
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (A) Oct W 0-1. (H) May W 1-0 . . BHA = 11th, CU = 23rd.
00/01 - under Micky Adams; (H) Nov W 4-1. (A) April D 0-0 .. BHA = 1st promo div2 (L1), CU = 22nd.
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) Sep L 3-1. (H) Dec L 1-2 . . .. BHA = 18th, CU = 8th.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) Oct D 2-2. (A) Mar L 2-0 . . . . BHA = 7th, CU = 4th p-os.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (A) Nov L 3-1. (H) Feb L 0-2 . . . . BHA = 16th, CU = 20th.
9/10 - under Russ Slade; (A) Sep W 0-2. Under Gus Poyet; (H) Apr L 1-2 . BHA = 13th 59pts, CU = 14th 58pts.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Sep D 0-0. (H) Mar W 4-3 . . . .. BHA = 1st, CU = 12th in L1.
C21 EFL record: P14 . W3 D1 L3 . F13 A12 . W2 D2 L3 . F5 A8 . Pt18 GD-2

NL/EFL 99/00: 23 22 17 22 23 L2, 3 NL, 1 L2, 8 4 20 / 14 12 8 17 22 L1, 20 10 6 10 11 / 18 10 20 5 L2, 24 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 4th L1 '08, worst = 3rd NL '05 . promo - '05 NL, '06 '23 L2, p-os - '08 L1, '17 '23 L2 . rel - '04 L2, '14 '24 L1.
past managers; Martin Wilkinson (1999-2000), Ian Atkins (00-1), Roddy Collins (01-3), Paul Simpson (03-6), Neil McDonald (06-7), John Ward (07-8),
Greg Abbott (08-13), Graham Kavanagh (13-14), Keith Curle (14-18), John Sheridan (2018), Steve Pressley (2019), Chris Beech (19-21), Keith Millen (21-22), Paul Simpson (22-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; winner - '11, finalists - '03, '06, '10, s-f - '00.

C21 Background - when for once Brighton fans were alternatively marauding into Wales for a p-o final, on a May Bank Holiday afternoon in 2004, Carlisle Utd's devoted were still accepting their fate, relegated as fully fledged members of the Conference in their next season. The Cumbrians climbed massive peaks to assail that 5th tier summit, in order to scale a final height in 2005 when roped into a play-off. They acclimatised quickly in League2 and in a lung bursting surge, stood on top of their own world as champions 05/6. Carlisle's successful back to back manager Paul Simpson was guided to another mountainous job over at Peak District Derby. So he moved from one National Park to another but one possibly involving a touch more Pride. In 13/14 Utd were rel to L2. Cumbrians reached p-os in 16/17 but not 17/18 & 18/19.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Carlisle's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. United were in lower midtable. The next L2 season began in September. United finished in mid table. Next term 21/22 they were 20th. Then 5th, winning the p-o final on pens. In 23/24 Carlisle were 24th in L1 and rel.

CHELTENHAM

League Two record from 11/12: 6 5 17, 23 L2, 1 NL, 21 17 16 5 1 L2, 15 16 21 L1 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '21 L2, '16 NL . rel - '24 L1, '15 L2 . p-os - '12 '13 '20 L2.
STATUS; falling back into non-league was a shock for a club routinely used to L1 or L2 year on year this century.
MANAGER; tba
previously Darrell Clarke (23-24), Wade Elliott (22-23), Michael Duff (18-22) .
ground: Whaddon Road 7k . nickname: Robins . shirt: red, white stripes & sleeves.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 31/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans.

Falmer years: from 2011 - no league fixtures . EFL Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 1-2 8-10 . 99/00-00/01 L2, 06/7-08/9 L1 . FA Cup & League Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
Leagues One & Two - more than just racing around.
Would you believe Cheltenham Town were in their first year as a Football League side when visiting Brighton in September 1999... which was also our
homecoming year at brand new Withdean sports complex in the burbs. And so a series of noughties footy events began between Sussex & Glos.
99/00 - under Micky Adams; (H) Dec W 1-0. (A) Jan D 0-0 .. BHA = 11th, CT = 8th.
00/01 - under Micky Adams; (H) Sept W 3-0. (A) Feb L 3-1 . BHA = 1st promo L2, CT = 9th.
Our paths did not cross again until end of 2006 in League1, although both clubs had known various ups and downs in the interim five years.
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) Dec W 2-1. (A) May D 1-1 . . BHA = 18th, CT = 17th.
The smaller club was ecstatic at maintaining their third tier status, where-as, perhaps the bigger one underachieved to finish a point behind in lower reaches.
Next term, here we go again, after following an FAC1 and JPT series of Nov ties.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) Feb L 2-1 - conceded 2 in stoppage. (H) Feb W 2-1 - winner 2 mins from time. BHA = 7th, CT = 19th.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (H) Oct D 3-3 - don't ask. (A) Jan D 2-2 - did our heads in . BHA = 20th, CT = 23rd rel.
C21 EFL record: P10 . W4 D1 L0 . F11 A5 . W0 D3 L2 . F5 A8 . Pt16 GD+3

NL/EFL from 99/00: 8 9 4 L2, 21 L1, 14 14 5 L2, 17 19 23 L1 / 22 17 6 5 17 23 L2, 1 NL, 21 17 16 / 5 1 L2, 15 16, 21 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 17th L1 '07, worst = 1st NL '16 . promo - '02 '06 '21 L2, '16 NL, p-os - '12 '13 '20 L2 . rel - '03 '09 '24 L1, '15 L2.
past managers; Steve Cotterill (1997-2002), Graham Allner (02-3), Bobby Gould (2003), John Ward (03-7), Keith Downing (07-8), Martin Allen (08-9),
Mark Yates (09-14), Paul Buckle (14-15), Gary Johnson (15-18), Michael Duff (18-22), Wade Elliott (22-23), Darrell Clarke (23-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . FA Trophy; winners - '98.

C21 Background - in more than a flight of fancy, Cheltenham rose from the Conference in 1999 - going up as champions. They had beaten Yeovil in a best of the west decider, deep in the Cotswolds with a deeper stoppage time winner. Local lad dun good, Steve Cotterill took over as boss at Whaddon Road in 1997 and had steered a course to League1 status by 2002. Albion had met Town twice in div3 (League2) as mentioned above and once-upon-a-time, ex-B'ton on-loan striker Cotterill was warmly welcomed by original Withdeanites with long memories. Anyway as a successful manager, he then moved north. Robins fell, in going south and League1 went west, in returning to a lower roosting position. In April '06 they beat Grimsby to rise phoenix like once more under John Ward, who flew in late in 2003. For 09/10 in L2, Town were again in free fall but beat the drop to non-league. Robins next completed their L2 season in 17th position. In 11/12 & 12/13 they reached play-offs but got relegated in 14/15. In 15/16 they won the Conf (National League) title at first attempt. At end of 18/19 Town ended up in L2 midtable.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Cheltenham's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. Town were then in 5th place and took part in p-os during June as the 4th pos club under pt/gm settlement. The next L2 season began in September. Town were promoted from L2 in Apr '21 and finished as champions. The following term 21/22 they were mid table in L1. Then 16th. In 23/24 Cheltenham were 21st in L1 and rel.

CHESTERFIELD

League Two record from 11/12: 22 L1, 8 1 L2, 6 18 24 L1, 24 L2) 15 19 6 7 3 1 @ 30/4/24.
recent promo - '24 NL, '14 L2 . rel - '12 '17 L1, '18 L2 . p-os - '15 L1, '21 '22 '23 NL.
STATUS; another club with a share of ups & downs and moving around town.
MANAGER; Paul Cook (2022), previously James Rowe (20-22), John Pemberton (19-20) .
ground: Technique Stad 10.5k . nickname: Spireites . shirt: blue, white trim.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20,

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 2-3 5 8 . 00/01 L2, 01/2 03/4 06/7 L1.
League One - a slight twist of inspiration.
00/01 - under Micky Adams; (A) 21/10/00 L 1-0 - conceded late at Saltergate. (H) 1/5/01 W 1-0 - classic W'dean corner .
BHA = 1st promo, C'fld = 3rd - 9pt penalty for being naughty.
01/2 - under Peter Taylor; (H) 21/12/01 D 2-2 - a rare W'dean draw. (A) 21/1/02 W 1-2 - right result . BHA = 1st b2b, C'fld = 18th 52pts.
03/4 - under Steve Coppell; (H) 16/9/03 W 1-0 - here we go. Under Mark McGhee; (A) 16/3/04 W 0-2 - we were going up . BHA = 4th promo p-os. C'fld = 20th 51 pts.
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; (H) 30/9/06 L 1-2 - steep learning curve. (A) 20/1/07 W 0-1 - win in a Peak District gale . BHA = 18th, C'fld = 21st 47pts rel.
C21 EFL record: P8 . W2 D1 L1 . F5 A4 . W3 D0 L1 . F5 A2 . Pt16 GD+4

NL/EFL from 99/00: 24 L1, 3 L2, 18 20 20 17 16 21 L1, 8 10 / 8 1 L2, 22 L1, 8 1 L2, 6 18 24 L1, 24 L2, 15 / 19 6 7 3 1 NL @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 6th L1 '15, worst = 15th NL '19 . promo - '01 '11 '14 L2, '24 NL . p-os - '15 L1, '21-'23 NL . rel - '00 '07 '12 '17 L1, '18 L2.
past managers; John Duncan (1993-2000), Nicky Law (00-1), Dave Rushbury (02-3), Roy McFarland (03-7), Lee Richardson (07-9), John Sheridan (09-12),
Paul Cook (12-15), Dean Saunders (2015), Danny Wilson (2016), Gary Caldwell (2017), Martin Allen (2018), Ian Evatt (2018), Jack Lester (17-18),
John Sheridan (2019), John Pemberton (19-20), James Rowe (20-22)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; winner - '12, finalist - '14, s-f - '00 '01 '07.

C21 Background - Spireites were a div2 club but dropped to tier four by year 2000. They stormed into a clear lead in the lower division from opening weeks of 00/01 and appeared set for the title. Albion were adrift at one stage in early March '01 by 16 points but clear of potential p-o qualifiers. The Football League were investigating Chesterfield's financial irregularities and it imposed a transfer embargo on the league leaders. They were also hit by an injury crisis and their form cracked with news of a 20k fine. Albion and Cardiff began to pull back the points deficit during an action packed run-in. Brighton overhauled Chesterfield with three games to go. We won the league fair and square, waving brown envelopes on an emotional night and you couldn't make it up.
By end of 9/10, 8th placed Spireites just missed out on tight L2 p-o stages by only 2pts. They went better for 10/11 season and won L2 playing at their new stadium. But they were immediately relegated at end of 11/12. Two years later they were back - inspiritional. After 16/17 the yo-yo club went down again to L2. Then straight into the National League at end of 17/18. In 18/19 they were midtable. Chesterfield were 19th in the div when the Nat Lg finished prematurely during March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The next NL term began in October. They got into p-os. Next term 21/22 they were 7th and in p-os. Then 3rd, losing in the p-o final on penalties. In 23/24 Chesterfield were 1st in NL and promo back to EFL.

COLCHESTER

League Two record from 11/12: 10 20 16 19 23 L1, 8 13 8 6 20 15 20 22 @ 29/4/24.
recent rel - '16 L1 . p-os - '20 L2 . bottom six - '13 '15 L1, '21 '23 '24 L2.
STATUS; moved out of town during mid noughties but didn't make the jump to play for longer at higher level.
MANAGER; Danny Crowley (2024)
previously Matt Etherington (2023), Ben Garner (2023), Matt Bloomfield (22-23), Steve Ball (interim), Wayne Brown (2022),
Hayden Mullins (21-22), Wayne Brown (2021), Steve Ball (20-21).
ground: Community Stad 10k . nickname: Us . shirt: blue.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3/4 @ 16/12/20 = no fans.

Falmer years: from 2011 - no league fixtures . EFL Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 3 5 10-12 . 01/2 03/4 08/9-10/11 L1.
League One - escaped their roots eventually.
United were promoted to div2 (L1) in 1998, when Albion were looking to return to Sussex having survived in div3 (L2) at Gillingham. BHA eventually caught up with Colchester at old Layer Road after both spent time at lower level during the late nineties. Each club sought permission for a new out of town home ground during those turbulent noughties in League One. These being; their prospective Cuckoo Farm site, while ours was Falmer.
01/2 - under Peter Taylor; (H) 27/10/01 W 1-0. (A) 30/3/02 W 1-4 . BHA = 1st promo div1 (C'ship), CU = 15th 57pts.
03/4 - under Steve Coppell; (A) 13/9/03 L 1-0 - with killer cross chagrin.
03/4 - under Mark McGhee; (H) 20/3/04 W 2-1 - after collective collywobbles . BHA = 4th promo p-os, CU = 11th 64pts.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (H) Dec L 1-2. Under Russ Slade; (A) Apr W 0-1 . BHA = 16th 52pts. CU = 12th 63pts.
9/10 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Dec L 1-2. (A) Ma D 0-0 . . . BHA = 13th 59pts, CU = 8th 72pts.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Jan W 2-0. (A) Apr D 1-1 .. BHA = 1st promo C, CU = 10th.
C21 EFL record: P10 . W3 D0 L2 . F7 A5 . W2 D2 L1 . F6 A3 . Pt17 GD+5

EFL from 99/00: 18 17 15 12 11 15 2 L1, 10 24 C, 12 / 8 10 10 20 16 19 23 L1, 8 13 8 / 6 20 15 20 22 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 10th C '07, worst = 13th L2 '18 . promo - '06 L1 . rel - '08 C, '16 L1
past managers; Steve Whitton (1999-2003), Phil Parkinson (03-6), Geraint Williams (06-8), Paul Lambert (08-9), Aidy Boothroyd (09-10), John Ward (10-12),
Joe Dunne (12-14), Tony Humes (14-15), Kevin Keen (2016), David Wright (2016), John McGreal (16-20), Steve Ball (20-21), Hayden Mullins (21-22),
Wayne Browne (2022), Matt Bloomfield (22-23), Ben Garner (2023), Matt Etherington (2023)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; s-f - '04 '06 '09.

C21 Info - In 05/6 the Essex club was granted permission to build a new stad at Cuckoo Farm. They also got promotion to the Championship as runner-up to county rivals Southend in League1. In 06/7 United got to top ten - just. Conversely their opponents on the Thames estuary dropped out of tier two. Unfortunately Colchester were subsequently relegated from the Championship in 07/8. And much later were down into L2 for 16/17. At end of 18/19 U's just missed reaching p-os.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Colchester's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. United were then in 6th place and took part in p-os during June. The next L2 season began in September. United finished in the bottom six. Next term 21/22 they were 15th. Then 20th. In 23/24 Colchester were 22nd in L2.

CREWE

League Two record from 11/12: 7 L2, 13 19 20 24 L1, 17 15 12 1 L2, 12 24 L1, 13 6 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '12 '20 L2 . rel - '16 '22 L1 . bottom six - '14 '15 L1.
STATUS; known higher levels during early noughties but not the force of old. Lower league fare these days.
MANAGER; Alex Morris (2022), previously David Artell (17-22) .
ground: Gresty Road 10k . nickname: Alex . shirt: red.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 6-10, 04/5-05/6 C'ship, 06/7-08/9 L1
Championship & League One - the club we couldn't beat - but then...
There is only one Albion as far as Brighton fans are concerned. There is also an Alexandra among those Uniteds, Towns and City's in league football. But perhaps a little bit of a girly name for the Railwaymen you might ponder. When founded, Crewe played at Alexandra Recreation Ground for a while but we don't know how far that was from the station. Anyway, there'd not been too many meetings in over a century of history and we seemed to miss one another in years before Withdean.
We swapped divisions in 2002 and they like us initially bounced back to the Championship quickly. We then saw a double re-acquaintance inside a month and the small club twice put it over the big one. It was rumoured their manager, who'd been there for so long it was some sort of record, previously thought we'd been perpetually struggling in League1. Brighton could not get anything from Crewe, as opposed to other bottom four strugglers in that season when we both beat the drop on the last day. In fact by conceding just two goals to us in our quick brace of fixtures, eventually made for a better goal difference to finally ensure a place next term in tier two themselves. You might remember how desperate it became to avoid a relegation zone position, a knife edge we'd slip from the following season. Mark McGhee said, 'every goal and point is important'.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee - (H) L 1-3, (A) L 3-1. . BHA = 20th, CA = 19th.
05/6 - under Mark McGheee; (H) D 2-2. (A) L 2-1. BHA = 24th rel, CA = 20th.
06/7 - under Micky Adams; (H) L 1-4. Under Dean Wilkins; (A) D 1-1 . both clubs mid-table anonymity.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) Aug L 2-1. (H) Feb W 3-0 . BHA = 7th, CA stayed up on the last day.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (A) Aug W 1-2. Under caretakers; (H) Feb L 0-4 . BHA = 20th, CA relegated .
C21 EFL record: P10 . W1 D1 L3 . F7 A13 . W1 D1 L3 . F6 A9 . Pt8 GD-9

EFL from 99/00: 19 14 22 C, 2 L1, 18 21 22 C, 13 20 22 L1 / 18 10 7 L2, 13 19 20 24 L1, 17 15 12 / 1 L2, 12 24 L1, 13 6 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 14th C '01, worst = 18th L2 '10 . promo - '03 L1, '12 '20 L2, rel - '02 '06 C, '09 '16 '22 L1.
past managers; Dario Gradi (1983-2007), Steve Holland (07-8), Gudjon Thordarson (08-9), Dario Gradi (09-11), Steve Davies (11-16), David Artell (17-22)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; winner - '13, finalists - '07, s-f - '03.

C21 Background - we seemed to be playing Crewe in so-called six pointers like er, forever. In fact only the last two seasons in Championship relegation scenarios, represented tier two meetings since 1996 - when we also went down a level. Over a disrupted century of north vs. south football we've clashed but merely a dozen times. They were in division three north for decades until the divide was finally crossed - by introduction of div four to the FL countrywide. BHA were then relegated from original div two, dropping to four in successive seasons to initially play there in 1963/64. Meanwhile Crewe gained a first promotion to the third division in 1963 but came straight back down. It was Albion's turn to go up as champions in 1965, including our first two fixtures with them. So we missed Alex yet again until 1968/9, on their second elevation but they crashed back through that trap door to div four. There they stayed awhile as the world turned on to 1989.
Albion had hit their own heights in those intervening years but started an overall slow decline. Paths conjoined again in 94/5 & 95/6 following Crewe's jump to higher standard. Again Alex ascended, to the renamed First Division (orig div2) by winning a play-off final in 1997. One way or another our tracks failed to come to a junction, bar those mid '60s & '90s couplings, with shunts into various sidings. A points switch always sent one or the other off in a different direction, after both clubs emerged from dark tunnels and were trying to find an up-line once more. Then we almost couldn't get rid of 'em.
In 09/10, Crewe finished in lower order of L2 with a similar record to BHA a div above. They were also better away from home. For 10/11, Alex were 10th in div4. But they made it back into L1 by winning the L2 p-o final of 11/12. A reversal of fortunes saw them drop into L2 again for 16/17. At end of 18/19 Alex were at the midtable mark.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Crewe's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. Alex led the div but were placed 2nd on pt/gm ave. The next L1 season started in September. Alex completed exactly in mid table. The following term 21/22 they were relegated to L2. Then 13th. In 23/24 Crewe were 6th in L2 and p-os.

DONCASTER

League Two record from 11/12: 24 C, 1 L1, 22 C, 13 21 L1, 3 L2 / 15 6 9 14 22 L1, 18, 5 L2 @ 29/4/24.
recent rel - '12 '14 C, '16 '22 L1 . promo - '13 L1, '17 L2 . p-os - '19 L1.
STATUS; much trouble & strife during the noughties until reaching level2 but lower leagues seem to be their brief.
MANAGER; Grant McCann (2023)
previously Danny Schofield (22-23), Gary McSheffrey (21-22), Richie Wellens (2021), Andy Butler (2021), Darren Moore (19-21) .
ground: Keepmoat Stad 15k . nickname: Donny . shirt: red & white hoops.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

FALMER years; from 2011. Seasons 1 3 - 11/12 13/14 C'ship.
11/12 - under Gus Poyet; 1st (H) Aug W 2-1. (A) Mar D 1-1 .. BHA = 10th 66pt. DR = 24th 36pt - relegated
13/14 - under Oscar Garcia: (A) Nov W 1-3 i. (H) Feb W 1-0 . BHA = 6th 72pt p-os, DR = 22nd 44pt - relegated.
Champ's record: P4 . W2 D0 L0 . F3 A1 . W1 D1 L0 . F4 A2. Pt10 GD+4

WITHDEAN era; from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 8-9, 06/7-07/8 L1.
League One - what a difference a decade makes.
Following a parting of ways in 1998 (when Doncaster Rovers fell from div3 into Conference footy) it was like turning back the clock on visiting old Belle Vue for a League1 fixture in November 2006 - one of their very last matches at Bawtry Road opposite the Racecourse. In Dean Wilkins first year of management, changing times revealed life in football was full of serious ups and downs. The following season saw Albion travel to Rovers brand spanking new Keepmoat Stadium... Falmer was 4 years away!
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) Nov L 1-0. (H) Apr L 0-2 . . BHA = 18th, DR completed mid table.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) Dec D 0-0. (H) Mar W 1-0 . BHA short of play-offs, DR went up via a Wembley victory - well, well, well.
C21 total EFL record: P8 . W3 D0 L1 . F4 A3 . W1 D2 L1 . F4 A3. Pt11 GD+2

NL/EFL from 99/00: 12 9 4 3 NL, 1 L2, 10 8 11 3 L1, 14 / 12 21 24 C, 1 L1, 22 C, 13 21 L1, 3 L2, 15 6 / 9 14 22 L1, 18 5 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 12th C'ship '10, worst = 12th NL '00 . promo - '03 NL, '04 '17 L2, '08 '13 L1 . rel - '12 '14 C, '16 '22 L1
past managers; Steve Wignall (1999-2001), Dave Penney (02-6), Sean O'Driscoll (06-11), Dean Saunders (11-12), Brian Flynn (12-13), Paul Dickov (13-15),
Darren Ferguson (15-18), Grant McCann (18-19), Darren Moore (19-21), Richie Wellens (2021), Gary McSheffrey (21-22), Danny Schofield (22-23)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; q-f - '06 . League Trophy; winners - '07.

C21 Background - finishing behind Forest just outside play-off places in 05/6, may have been disappointing to Doncaster devoted. They had been used to success after five years in the Nationwide Conference, rebuilding self esteem. Brighton waved goodbye to them in 1998, when almost rock bottom, when only one went down - but enough already. In the same year that Yeovil finally made it up to FL status, Rovers took an opportunity to regain a lost league slot.
Conference play-offs of 2003 saw Dagenham & Redbridge vs. Doncaster for the 2nd promo spot, at Stoke's Britannia Stadium in the final. This game went on to extra time after D&R cancelled out an initial 0-2 advantage to Donny. Having been denied a part in League2 a year before, money was on Daggers again getting through. However, it was to be sudden death under golden goal, so rules & regs repeatedly caused de- & re-jection, when Rovers put the boot in ten minutes before northern red celebrations.
As a consequence Football League returned to ramshackle Belle Vue, which itself needed a certain level of improvement to operate as the Earth Stadium. If you went there, you might make a disconnection between those two symbolic words. Btw, Doncaster won League2 in 2005 while on a roll, hence those opening comments as above. Dag & Red meanwhile got a 'get out of jail' pardon to compete in League2 of 07/8.
In the Championship of 08/9 and 09/10, Dons finished in mid table. For 10/11 they beat the drop at 21st. In 12/13 Doncaster were L1 champs. But in 15/16 they'd dropped into L2, only to bounce back in 16/17 automatically. At end of 18/19 Rovers reached p-o s-fs.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March and ended early due to the Covid-19 crisis. The next L1 season started in September. Rovers finished in mid table. The following term 21/22 they were relegated to L2. Then 18th. In 23/24 Doncaster were 5th in L2 and p-os.

FLEETWOOD

League Two record from 11/12: 1 NL, 13 4 L2, 10 19 4 14 11 5 15 20 13 22 @ 29/4/24.
recent p-os - '20 '17 L1. promo - '12 NL, '14 L2 . rel - '24 L1 . bottom six - '22 '16 L1.
STATUS; very new to pro footy but desire to establish high in the pyramid as possible.
MANAGER; Charlie Adam (2023)
previously Lee Johnson (2023), Scott Brown (22-23), Stephen Crainey (21-22), Simon Grayson (2021), Joey Barton (18-21) .
ground: Highbury Stad 5.3k . nickname: Fishermen . shirt: red, white sleeves.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings. Withdean era - from 1999 to 2011, no meetings.

NL/EFL from 99/00: 7 5 14 10 3 1 NWC, 2 8 1 NP, 8 / 2 NLN, 5 1 NL, 13 4 L2, 10 19 4 14 11 / 5 15 20 13 22 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 4th L1 '17, worst = 5th NL '11 . promo - '12 NL, '14 L2 . rel - '24 L1
past managers; Tony Greenwood (2003-9), Micky Mellon (09-12), Graham Alexander (12-15), Steve Pressley (15-16), John Sheridan (2018),
Uwe Rosler (16-18), Joey Barton (18-21), Steven Crainey (21-22), Scott Brown (22-23), Lee Johnson (2023)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; s-f - '14, '16.

C21 Info - Town won the Conference (Blue Square Prem) in 2012, scoring just over a ton of goals and accumulating in excess of 100 points. They won the L2 p-o final in 13/14 to cap a fantastic rise from lower non-league during the last decade. At end of 18/19 Town were settled in L1 mid table.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March due to the Covid-19 crisis. Fleetwood were then in 5th place and took part in p-os during July. Therefore the following L1 season started in September. Town finished in mid table. The following term 21/22 they were in the bottom eight. Then 13th. In 23/24 Fleetwood were 22nd in L1 and rel.

GILLINGHAM

League two record from 11/12: 8 1 L2, 17 12 9 20 17 13 11 10 21 L1, 17 12 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '13 L2 . rel - '22 L1 . bottom six - '17 L1.
STATUS; been up & down the pecking order this century in the 3 EFL divs. Probably a third tier outfit by default.
MANAGER; Mark Bonner (2024)
previously Stephen Clemence (23-24), Neil Harris (22-23), Steve Evans (19-22) .
ground: Priestfield 11.5k . nickname: Gills . shirt: blue.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3/4 @ 27/11/20.

Falmer Years: from 2011 - no league meetings . League Cup - go to FY tab, previous encounters.
WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 4 6 8-9 11 . 02/3, 04/5 C'ship, 06/7-07/8 09/10 L1 . League Cup - see WE tab previous encounters.
Championship & League One - Medway between the devil and deep blue.
Priestfield was the place where Brighton spent a couple of years at 'home' immediately before returning to Sussex at Withdean in 1999. Having next got from div3 to div1 (L2 thru C) in three seasons, Brighton fans were full of hope for a bright Falmer future and living the dream in 2002. But Albion woke up to the fact that the bar had been raised only after a string of div1 (C'ship) defeats that summer and autumn. Gillingham showed what was required by gaining a clear cut reversal and revealing severe B'ton deficiencies.
02/3 - under Martin Hinshelwood; (H) Sep L 2-4. Under Steve Coppell; (A) Mar L 3-0 . BHA relegated.
04/5 - under Mark McGhee; (A) Sep W 0-1. (H) Dec W 2-1 . BHA stayed up, Gills didn't.
05/6 - Unfortunately it couldn't last and BHA wasn't as yet a big enough outfit to maintain tier two status for long.
06/7 - under Mark McGhee; (H) Aug W 1-0. Under Dean Wilkins; (A) Feb W 0-1 score . Each side finished in lower reaches of this division.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) Sep L 1-0. (H) Mar W 4-2 . . BHA = 7th, Gills went down on the last day.
9/10 - under Russ Sade; (H) Oct W 2-0. Under Gus Poyet; (A) Apr D 1-1 . BHA = 13th 59pts, Gills = 21st 50pts rel on goal difference.
C21 EFL record: P10 . W4 D0 L1 . F11 A7 . W2 D1 L2 . F3 A5 . Pt19 GD+2

EFL from 99/00: 3 L1, 13 12 11 21 22 C, 14 16 22 L1, 5 L2 / 21 L1, 8 8 1 L2, 17 12 9 20 17 13 / 11 10 21 L1, 17 12 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 11th C '03, worst = 17th L2 '23 . promo - '00 L1, '09 '13 L2, rel - '05 C, '08 '10 '22 L1.
past managers; Peter Taylor (1999-2000), Andy Hessenthaler (00-4), Stan Ternent (04-5), Neale Cooper (2005), Ronnie Jepson (05-7), Mark Stimson (07-10), Andy Hessenthaler (10-12), Martin Allen (2013), Peter Taylor (2014), Justin Edinburgh (15-16), Adrian Pennock (2017), Steve Lovell (17-19), Mark Patterson (interim 2019), Steve Evans (19-22), Neil Harris (22-23), Stephen Clemence (23-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; s-f - '15.

C21Background - they'd been to W'dean twice before as Championship opposition and each outfit had one win apiece. They did for us in 02/3 when naive new boys Albion blundered badly. In 04/5 we turned those tables as Gills struggled all the way to the wire. On that last day under relegation threat, B'ton drew, Crewe won at home, while Gillingham went across to already sent-down Nott'm Forest to claim a point. Brighton wound up 20th with 51 pts, Crewe 21st on 50 pts and Gillingham 22nd on 50 pts, also with a big negative goal difference but inferior by just 1. So Gillingham shaded us to lg1 by a year and finished 05/6 at mediocre mid-table. Crewe also rejoined old adversaries and Forest too knew all about life in lower leagues. Time did tell as to the true quality of those teams a few of years further on. Before start of 06/7 campaign, City Ground big boys from alongside the Trent were firm favourites for table topping promotion. Our ex-landlords from Priestfield on lower reaches of the Medway, plus northern acquaintances from Alex Stadium up the junction, were both expected to compete very closely again - this time for those knock-out play-off places. To aim for it they shoulda scored lots of goals, rather than letting them in between their own posts. By 07/8 just staying in lg1 woulda been enough for Gillingham. In 08/9 they bobbed back from lg2 via play-offs. For 10/11 & 11/12, Gills just missed L2 p-o places in 8th but in 12/13 they won L2. For years on thru 17/18 & 18/19 they were mostly a lower order L1 outfit.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March and ended early due to the Covid-19 crisis. The next L1 season started in September. Gills made the top ten. The following term 21/22 they were relegated to L2. Then 17th. In 23/24 Gillingham were 12th in L2.

GRIMSBY

League Two record from 11/12: 11 4 4 3 4 NL, 14 18 17 13 24 L2, 6 NL, 11 21 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '16 '22 NL . rel - '21 L2 . p-os - '13 '14 '15 NL.
STATUS; currently a very long way from level2 during the noughties, having dropped right through into the National League before climbing back up.
MANAGER; David Artell (2023)
previously Paul Hurst (20-23), Ian Holloway (19-20) .
ground: Blundell Park 9k . nickname: Mariners . shirt: black, white stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 4-5, 02/3 C'ship, 03/4 L1.
Championship & League One - north-east coastal erosion.
Mariners graced div1 from 1998 in a pre-Withdean era and Albion joined 'em there for our 1st post-Y2K level2 campaign.
After merely two terms we didn't meet again as the north - south divide grew much wider over two decades.
02/3 - under Martin Hinshelwood; (H) 28/9/02 L 1-2 - they knew the score about quotas. Under Steve Coppell; 4/5/03 D 2-2 - netted but each went over the side .
BHA = 23rd 45pts, GT = 24th 39pts - both relegated to div2 L1.
03/4 - under Steve Coppell; (H) 11/10/03 W 3-0 - sunk 'em proper. Under Mark McGhee; (A) 14/2/04 L 2-1 - awash in a stormy winter week .
BHA = 4th 76pt p-os. GT = 21st 50pt rel L2.
C21 EFL record: P4 . W1 D0 L1 . F4 A2 . W0 D1 L1 . F3 A4 . Pt4 GD+1

NL/EFL from 99/00: 20 18 19 24 C, 21 L1, 18 4 15 16 22 / 23 L2, 11 11 4 4 3 4 NL, 14 18 17 / 13 24 L2, 6 NL, 11 21 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 18th C '01, worst = 11th NL '11 '12 . promo - '16 '22 NL, p-os - '06 L2, '13-15 NL . rel - '03 C, '04 L1, '10 '21 L2.
past managers; Paul Hurst (11-16), Marcus Bignot (16-17), Russell Slade (17-18), Michael Jolley (18-19), Ian Holloway (19-20), Paul Hurst (20-23)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; finalists - '08 . FA Trophy; finals - '13 '16, s-f - '14.

C21 Info - Town nearly made it directly back to League1 from their Blundell Park base in Cleethorpes at very end of 05/6 campaign. In the event they were beaten in the lg2 p-o final way over in Cardiff. In following seasons Mariners struggled in lower table positions. One glimmer of hope was if they could get the proposed Conoco stad built at Great Coates to kick-start a revival. In 08/9 they escaped relegation to non-league but in '9/10 Town were sunk without a trace - oh dear! In 10/11 & 11/12, Grimsby were 11th in the Conference (Blue Square Prem). Then for 12/13 thru 15/16, usually 4th. But Mariners regained League Two status via National League playoffs in 15/16. At end of 18/19 they were now a lower order L2 outfit.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Grimsby's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. Town were in midtable. The next L2 season began in September. Mariners were relegated to the NL in April '21. Next term 21/22 they were 6th and in p-os, winning the final and promo back to EFL. Then 11th. In 23/24 Grimsby were 21st in L2.

HARROGATE

League Two record from 17/18: 2 NLN, 6 2 NL, 17 19 19 13 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '20 NL, '18 NLN . p-os - '19 NL.
STATUS; steady as she goes in non-league northern ocean until suddenly riding the wave into higher national waters and then higher...
Manager; Simon Weaver (09-24), previously Neil Aspin (2009) .
ground: Wetherby Road 3.8k . nickname: Sulphurites . shirt: yellow, black stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 31/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans.

Falmer Years from 2011 & Withdean Era from 1999 - no meetings.

NL/EFL from 04/5: 13yrs NLN, 2 NLN, 6 2 NL, 17 19 19 13 L2 @ 4/5/24.
past manager: Simon Weaver (09-19).
EFL Trophy: winners - '20.

Footnote: Town reached the Nat Lg p-os in 18/19.
Town were 2nd in the division when the nat lg was halted prematurely during March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. They took part in p-os during July reaching and winning the final in early August to be promoted to the EFL for the first time. The next L2 season began in September. Town finished in the bottom eight. Next term 21/22 they were 19th. Then 19th again. In 23/24 Harrogate were 13th in L2.

MK DONS

League Two record from 11/12: 5 8 10 2 L1, 23 C, 12 / 23 L1, 3 L2, 18 13 3 21 L1, 4 L2 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '15 L1, '19 L2 . rel - '16 C, '18 '23 L1 . p-os - '12 '22 L1, '24 L2.
STATUS; original franchise club exported from suburban outer London, who have known a serious few up & downs.
MANAGER; Scott Lindsey (2024)
previously Mike Williamson (23-24), Graham Alexander (2023), Mark Jackson (22-23), Liam Manning (21-22), Russell Martin (19-21) .
ground: Stadium MK, 30k . nickname: Dons . shirt: white.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2k fans . Tier 3/4 @ 17/12/20 = no fans.

FALMER years: from 2011. Season5, 15/16 C'ship . FA Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
15/16 - under Chris Hughton; (H) Nov W 2-1. (A) Mar W 1-2 . BHA = 3rd 89pt p-os, MKD = 23rd 39pt - rel.
C'ship record: P2 . W1 D0 L0 . F2 A1 . W1 D0 L0 . F2 A1 . Pt6 GD+2

WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 10-12, 08/9-10/11 L1. League Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
League One - are you Wombles in disguise?
No league meetings until 2008 in the Withdean era. Dons came up from League2 as champions in 07/8.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (H) Dec 2-4. Under Russ Slade; (A) Apr L 2-0 . BHA = 16th, MKD p-o s-f.
9/10 - under Russ Slade; (H) Oct L 0-1. Under Gus Poyet; (A) May D 0-0 .. BHA = 13th 59pts, MKD = 12th 60pts.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (H) Sep W 2-0. (A) Feb L 1-0 . BHA = 1st champs, MKD = 5th p-os.
C21 total EFL record: P8 . W2 D0 L2 . F6 A6 . W1 D1 L2 . F2 A4 . Pt10 GD-2

EFL from 04/5: 20 22 L1, 4 1 L2, 3 / 12 5 5 8 10 2 L1, 23 C, 12 23 L1, 3 L2 / 18 13 3 21 L1, 4 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 23rd C '16, worst = 4th L2 '07 '24 . promo - '08 '19 L2, '15 L1 . p-os - '07 '24 L2, '09 '11 '12 '22 L1 . rel - '06 '18 '23 L1, '16 C.
past managers; Danny Wilson (2004-6), Martin Allen (06-7), Paul Ince (07-8), Roberto Di Matteo (08-9), Paul Ince (09-10), Karl Robinson (10-16),
Richie Barker (2016), Robbie Neilson (16-18), Dan Micciche (2018), Paul Tisdale (18-19), Russell Martin (19-21), Liam Manning (21-22), Mark Jackson (22-23), Graham Alexander (2023), Mike Williamson (23-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; winners - '08, s-f - '10.

C21 Background - the JP trophy, our lower leagues knock-out competition known affectionately as the paint pot, had a new name added to a list of infrequent visitors at Withdean when Milton Keynes Dons come to call in Nov 2006. Milton Keynes became a so-called 'new town', built on land that almost surrounded a village of self same name, due south of Northampton.
Everything was new and in the mid nineties they put down an artificial pitch, near one of those many roundabouts along lengthy Portway. Its purpose was to be the new National Hockey Stadium, accessible from arterial M1 and close to mainline Central station. In 2003 a new football team arrived from London that played in what was then the new Championship, so they grassed their surface to meet FL rules. Wimbledon FC had inconceivably 'moved' 65 miles via M25 and previously homeless Dons also carried baggage concerned with Administration.
By 2004 they had fallen to League1 and were then known as Milton Keynes Dons. Wimbledon was gone and forgotten, as a further drop to League2 for 07/8 season marked a place where only its ghost appeared. So 'new town' effectively got a new club, in a new league and one way or another, a new future.
But they were on the up and got granted a new pitch to host league football to boot. Dons were eventually promoted to lev2 in 14/15 but went back to L1 for 16/17.
They dropped into L2 at end of 17/18 but were promoted once again at end of 18/19.
In 19/20 the league was suspended during March and ended early due to the Covid-19 crisis. The next L1 season started in September. Dons finished in mid table. The following term 21/22 they reached p-os. Then 21st and rel. In 23/24 MKD were 4th in L2 and p-os.

MORECAMBE

League Two record from 11/12: 15 16 18 11 21 18 22 18 22 4 L2, 19 22 L1, 15 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '21 L2 . bottom six - '16 '18 '20 L2, '22 L1 . rel - '23 L1
STATUS; made it into the EFL 3rd div but serially struggles to retain midtable continuity this decade.
MANAGER; Derek Adams (2024)
previously Ged Brannan (23-24), Derek Adams (22-23) & (19-21), Stephen Robinson (21-22).
ground: Mazuma Stad 6.4k . nickname: Shrimps . shirt: red.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings. Withdean era - from 1999 to 2011, no meetings.

NL/EFL from 99/00: 3 19 6 2 7 7 5 3 NL, 11 11 / 4 20 15 16 18 11 21 18 22 18 / 22 4 L2, 19 22 L1, 15 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 4th L2 '10 '21, worst = 19th NL '01 . promo - '07 NL, '21 L2 . p-os - '10 L2, '00 '03 '06 NL . rel - '23 L1
past managers; Jim Harvey (1994-2006), Sammy McIlroy (06-11), Jim Bentley (11-19), Derek Adams (19-21), Stephen Robinson (21-22), Derek Adams (22-23), Ged Brannan (23-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; s-f - '08. q-f - '16 . FA Trophy; s-f - '02.

C21 Info - they got into the FL and finished in lg2 mid table for 07/8 & 08/9. In 09/10 under ex-pro Sammy McIlroy, the north-west coast outfit reached L2 play-offs in an eight way finish for those four spots. For 10/11 Morecambe only finished 20th and 11/12 thru 14/15 they finished mid table. But Shrimps fell into the bottom four for 15/16. At end of 18/19 they were still a lower order L2 outfit.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Morecambe's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. Shrimps were 3rd from bottom. The next L2 season began in September. They reached p-os final, were victorious in extra time and promoted to League One at end of May '21. The following term 21/22 they were in the L1 bottom eight. Then 22nd and rel. In 23/24 Morecambe were 15th in L2.

NEWPORT COUNTY

League Two record from 11/12: 19 3 NL, 14 9 22 22 11 7 15 5 11 15 18 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '13 NL . p-os '19 '21 L2 . bottom six - '12 NL, '16 '17 L2.
STATUS; a name from the previous century who 'disappeared' but regained EFL level and so far so good.
MANAGER; tba
previously Graham Coughlan (22-24), Darren Kelly (interim), James Rowberry (21-22), Wayne Hatswell (caretaker '21), Michael Flynn (17-21) .
ground: Rodney Parade 7.8k . nickname: Exiles . shirt: yellow, black sleeves.
Covid: Welsh restrictions 27/12/21 . relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Welsh equivalent of lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3/4 @ 17/12/20.

Falmer years: from 2011 - no league meetings . EFL Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
Withdean era: from 1999 to 2011 - no meetings.

NL/EFL from 99/00: 7 10 5 10 7 SLP, 18 18 6 9 10 / 1 NLS, 9 19 3 NL, 14 9 22 22 11 7 / 15 5 11 15 18 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 5th L2 '21, worst = 19th NL '12 . promo - '13 NL, p-os - '19 '21 L2.
past managers; Peter Beadle (05-8), Dean Holdsworth (08-11), Anthony Hudson (2011), Justin Edinburgh (11-15), Terry Butcher (2015), John Sheridan (15-16),
Warren Feeney (2016), James Bittner (2016), Graham Westley (16-17), Michael Flynn (17-21), James Rowberry (21-22), Graham Coughlan (22-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; s-f - '14 '20 . FA Trophy; finalists - '12.

C21 Info - after more than two decades out of Pro football divisions, County regained FL status in 2014 after rising from lower Conference ranks of the non-league pyramid. They twice beat the drop from L2 in 15/16 & 16/17. At end of 18/19 County reached L2 p-os.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Newport County's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. County were in midtable. The next L2 season began in September. NC reached p-os, losing in the final aet. Next term 21/22 they were 11th. Then 15th. In 23/24 County were 18th in L2.

NOTTS CO

League Two record from 11/12: 7 12 20 21 L1, 17 16 5 23 L2, 3 5 5 2 NL, 14 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '23 NL . rel - '15 L1, '19 L2 . p-os - '18 L2, '20 '21 '22 NL . bottom six - '14 L1.
STATUS; another up & down outfit who struggle to achieve other than basic lower league existence.
MANAGER; Stuart Maynard (2024)
previously Luke Williams (22-24), Ian Burchnall (21-22), Neil Ardley (18-21) .
ground: Meadow Lane 19.8k . nickname: Magpies . shirt: black & white stripes.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 3 5 12 . 01/2 03/4 10/11 L1.
League One - over the river but up the creek.
In 97/98 Magpies had just one season in div3 during Albion's perpetual presence lost in the lowest league.
By 2001 Brighton's ball was rolling onwards in div2 and generally upwards thereafter.
01/2 - under Peter Taylor; (A) 23/10/01 D 2-2 - only lost one away. (H) 23/3/02 D 2-2 - only lost one at home . BHA = 1st b2b titles. NC = 19th 50pts.
03/4 - under Mark McGhee; (A) 22/11/03 W 1-2 - over Magpies moon. (H) 1/5/04 W 1-0 - og, all count . BHA = 4th p-os promo. NC = 23rd 42pts rel.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (H) March (postponements) W 1-0. (A) May D 1-1 . BHA = 1st prom, NC = 19th.
C21 EFL record: P6 . W2 D1 L0 . F4 A2 . W1 D2 L0 . F5 A4 . Pt12 GD+3

NL/EFL from 99/00: 8 8 19 15 23 L1, 19 21 13 21 19 / 1 L2, 19 7 12 20 21 L1, 17 16 5 23 L2 / 3 5 5 2 NL, 14 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 7th L1 '12, worst = 23rd L2 '19 . promo - '10 L2, '23 NL . p-os - '18 L2 . rel - '04 '15 L1, '19 L2.
past managers; Gary Brazil (1999-2002), Jocky Scott (00-1), Billy Dearden (02-4), Ian Richardson (04-5), Gudjon Thordarson (05-6), Steve Thompson (06-7),
Ian McParland (07-9), Hans Backe (2009), Steve Cotterill (2010), Craig Short (2010), Paul Ince (10-11), Martin Allen (11-12), Keith Curle (12-13),
Chris Kiwomya (2013), Shaun Derry (13-15), Ricardo Moniz (2015), Jamie Fullarton (2016), Mark Cooper (2016), John Sheridan (2016), Kevin Nolan (17-18),
Harry Kewell (2018), Neal Ardley (18-21), Ian Burchnall (21-22), Luke Williams (22-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; s-f - '15, q-f - '02 '14.

C21 Info - County had gone into Administration in div2 of 02/3 and finished 15th. Life in League2 three seasons later was no fun at all. They survived a second drop on the last day to retain over 140 years in pro footy. In 07/8 they completed another tough term in 21st, 6pts above the Blue Square cut-off line. Apparently their proverbial wheel was still on the barrow. The big money was invested, although Sven Goran Ericcson left for a foreign job. Magpies duly completed 9/10 as L2 champions, with a 10pts lead over runners-up Cherries. For 11/12 they just missed play-offs on GD but only mid table in 12/13. But by 15/16 were in L2 getting used to it again - reaching p-os in 17/18. At end of 18/19 Magpies dropped into non-league football, as historically the oldest EFL club. County were 3rd in the div when the Nat Lg was ended prematurely during March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. They took part in p-os during July and reached the final. The next NL term began in October. They again got into p-os. Next term 21/22 they were 5th and once more in p-os. Then 2nd, winning the p-o final on penalties. In 23/24 County were 14th in L2.

PORT VALE

League Two record from 11/12: 12 3 L2, 9 18 12 21 L1, 20 20 8 13 5 L2, 18 23 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '13 '22 L2 . rel - '17 '24 L1 . bottom six - '18 '19 L2.
STATUS; another club with history at higher level but one who settled at lower league as befits their true standing.
MANAGER; Darren Moore (2024)
previously Andy Crosby (23-24), Darrell Clarke (21-23), caretaker Danny Pugh (2021), John Askey (19-21) .
ground: Vale Park 19k . nickname: Valiants . shirt: white, black sleeves & trim.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Falmer years: from 2011 - no league fixtures . FA Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 3 5 8-9 . 01/2 03/4 06/7-07/8 L1.
League One - a crack or two appears in the Potteries.
It's a fact that Valiants were many years a div1 (Championship) club until 2001, while Albion blundered about before escaping from div2 (L1).
01/2 - under Peter Taylor; (A) Nov W 0-1. (H) Apr W 1-0 . BHA = 1st promo C'ship, PV = 14th 57pts.
03/4 - under Mark McGhee; (H) Dec D 1-1 - valiant p-pots. (A) Mar D 1-1 - potted a pt valiantly . . BHA = 4th promo p-os, PV = 7th 73pts failed by GD.
06/7 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) Dec L 2-1. (H) Jan D 0-0 . BHA = 18th 52pts, PV = 12th 60pts.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) Oct W 0-1. (H) Apr L 2-3 . . BHA = 7th 69pts, PV = 23rd 38pts rel.
C21 EFL record: P8 . W1 D2 L1 . F4 A4 . W2 D1 L1 . F4 A3 . Pt12 GD+1

EFL from 99/00: 23 C, 11 14 17 7 18 13 12 23 L1, 18 / 10 11 12 3 L2, 9 18 12 21 L1, 20 20 / 8 13 5 L2, 18 23 L1 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 23rd C '00, worst = 20th L1 '18 . promo - '13 '22 L2 . rel - '00 C, '08 '17 '24 L1.
past managers; Brian Horton (1999-2004), Martin Foyle (04-7), Lee Sinnott (07-8), Dean Glover (08-9), Micky Adams (09-10), Jim Gannon (2011),
Micky Adams (11-14), Rob Page (14-16), Bruno Ribeiro (2016), Michael Brown (2017), Neil Aspin (17-19), John Askey (19-21), Darrell Clarke (21-23), Andy Crosby (23-24)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . League Trophy; winner - '01, q-f - '19.

C21 Info - Martin Foyle took over from ex-Albion boss Brian Horton in 2004 as PV had fallen to languish in lg1 (div2) following a number of years in the Championship (div1). They were struggling to survive, though made it through Administration and slowly stabilised. From 2007 Vale were bringing on youngsters in similar vane to Albion as a way forward. For teams like us, it's probably the only method of progress. Foyle said, 'I feel a need to throw the kids in. It will be sink or swim but we have confidence in them benefiting from playing a better standard of football'. You could almost quote BHA management voicing opinion along those lines as well. Vale unfortunately seemed to suffer at the gate, which generally appeared to be a trend across the board involving grass-roots footy around this time. Well, well, Micky Adams ended up there and in 9/10 made a late push for play-offs. Valiants finished 10th four points adrift. But you know what he did at BHA in 00/01 from a similar starting spot. Adams baled out for Sheff Utd in 10/11 and Vale finished 11th in L2. He actually went back to Burslem for 11/12, although the club went into administration. In 12/13 Vale got auto-promo to L1. But were relegated to L2 in 16/17. At end of 18/19 they were left a lower order outfit.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Port Vale's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. Vale were just outside p-os. The next L2 season began in September. They finished in mid table. Next term 21/22 they were 5th and in p-os, winning the final and promo to L1. Then 18th. In 23/24 Vale were 23rd in L1 and rel.

SALFORD

League Two record from 16/17: 4 1 NLN, 3 NL, 10 8 10 7 20 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '18 NLN, '19 NL . p-os - '23 L2, '17 NLN.
STATUS; had ex-PL MU pros input and got mercurial rise to be crowned kings of the north at lev6.
Manager; Karl Robinson (2024)
previously Neil Wood (22-23), Gary Bowyer (20-22), Richie Wellens (20-21) .
ground: Moor Lane 5.1k . nickname: Ammies . shirt: red.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 4 @ 31/12/20, Tier 3 @ 27/11/20.

Falmer Years - from 2011, no meetings . Withdean Era - from 1999 to 2011, no meetings.

NL/EFL from 08/9: 20 11 12 13 16 12 1 North Div1N, 3 NP, 4 1 NLN, 3 NL, 10 8 10 7 20 L2 @ 4/5/24.
* promo - '15 '16 non lg, '18 NLN, '19 NL.
past managers: Richie Wellens (2020-21), Graham Alexander (18-20), Bernard Morley & Anthony Johnson (15-18), Phil Power (13-15), Darren Sheridan (12-13).
EFL Trophy: winners - '20.

C21 Footnote: after previous quick-fire elevation from pyramid depths, at end of 18/19 City reached Nat Lg p-os. They duly won the final and elevated to EFL status.
Such is power of elite investment. However, note their hire & fire coaching policy - class of '92 rule!
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Salford's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. City were 8pts off p-os. The next L2 season began in September. City just missed p-os. Next term 21/22 they were 10th. Then 7th. In 23/24 Salford were 20th in L2.

SWINDON

League Two record from 11/12: 1 L2, 6 8 4 16 22 L1, 9 13 2 L2, 23 L1, 6 10 19 @ 29/4/24.
recent promo - '12 '20 L2 . rel - '17 '21 L1 . p-os - '13 '15 L1, '22 L2.
STATUS; had their trials & tribulations over this century and history suggests it is not done yet awhile.
MANAGER; tba
previously Mark Kennedy (2024), Michael Flynn (23-24), Jody Morris (2023), Scott Lindsey (22-23), Ben Garner (21-22), John McGreal (2021), Tommy Wright (2021), John Sheridan (20-21).
ground: County Ground 15.7k . nickname: Robins . shirt: red.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 31/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans.

Falmer years: from 2011 - no league fixtures . EFL Cup - see FY tab, previous encounters.
WITHDEAN era: from 1999 to 2011. Seasons 3 5 9-12 . 01/2 03/4 07/8-10/11 L1 . League Trophy - see WE tab previous encounters.
League One - round and round as if by magic - see travel in FY tab.
In 2001 we joined them in div2 (L1). Brighton had just gained promo from div3 (L2) and Swindon were relegated from div1 (C'ship) a year beforehand.
Two years and three managers later we returned briefly to L1 in 2003. We went on to Wales, they kinda Wilted. But it didn't stop there as by end of the 2006 season they again became regular L1 rivals with us but Town were in ownership crisis. More ups & downs were yet to come to boot.
01/2 - under Peter Taylor; (A) Nov D 1-1. (H) Apr D 0-0 . . . BHA promo C, ST mid table.
03/4 - under Mark McGhee; (H) Sep D 2-2 - almost silly season. (A) Dec L 2-1 - repeat performance. BHA = 4th p-os promo. ST = 5th.
07/8 - under Dean Wilkins; (A) Dec W 0-3. (H) Mar W 2-1 . BHA = 7th, ST = 13th.
08/9 - under Micky Adams; (A) Dec W 0-2. Under Russ Slade; (H) Apr L 2-3. BHA = 16th 52pt, Danny Wilson got ST = 15th 53pts.
9/10 - under Gus Poyet, (A) Dec L 2-1. (H) Mar L 0-1 . . . .. BHA = 13th 59pts, ST = 5th 82pts p-o's.
10/11 - under Gus Poyet; (A) Aug W 1-2. (H) Mar W 2-1 . . BHA = L1 numero uno promo C, ST = 24th rel L2.
C21 EFL record: P12 . W2 D2 L2 . F8 A8 . W3 D1 L2 . F10 A6 . Pt18 GD+4

EFL from 99/00: 24 C, 20 13 10 5 12 23 L1, 3 L2, 13 15 / 5 24 L1, 1 L2, 6 8 4 16 22 L1, 9 13 / 2 L2, 23 L1, 6 10 19 L2 @ 4/5/24
EFL: best = 24th C '00, worst = 19th L2 '24 . promo - '07 '12 '20 L2, p-os - '04 '10 '13 '15 L1, '22 L2 . rel - '00 C, '06 '11 '17 '21 L1.
past managers; Jimmy Quinn (1998-2000), Colin Todd (2000), Andy King (00-5), Iffy Onuora (05-6), Dennis Wise (2006), Paul Sturrock (06-7),
Danny Wilson (08-11), Paul Hart (2011), Paulo Di Canio (11-13), Kevin MacDonald (2013), Mark Cooper (13-15), Martin Ling (2015), Luke Williams (16-17),
David Flitcroft (17-18), Phil Brown (2018), Richie Wellens (18-20), John Sheridan (20-21), John McGreal (2021), Ben Garner (21-22), Scott Lindsey (22-23),
Jody Morris (2023), Michael Flynn (23-24), Mark Kennedy (2024)
FA Cup; nq . EFL Cup; nq . EFL Trophy; finalist - '12, s-f - '01 '05 '14.

C21 Info - Swindon started the 07/8 season as 40-1 outsiders to head League 1 come May. Paul Sturrock their then recent manager left to return hurriedly to Plymouth and the club was in crisis at Board level downwards to boot. On the pitch they fell to 14th with a home record of W5 D2 L2 F16 A7, when Brighton went there one December Saturday and got a right result. By end of November, Town had beaten West Country yokels Bristol Rovers, drew against Orient but lost at home to Doncaster. Prior at end of October, Swindon also beat Tranmere and a crushing victory over Gillingham saw them in a p-o position early in that month. Previously in September they also trounced Bournemouth, while Yeovil snatched a win but Crewe forced a draw at their place. Earlier they did for Luton in August.
For a while following B'ton's visit, Town's future was definitely in some doubt. In finding new owners, Swindon seemed able to reproduce a bit of magic as of old and were still on the roundabout, looking for the right road for Town. But in football, you just never can be sure of the way it will go.
In 11/12 Robins bobbed back to L1 as champions of L2. And made L1 p-os twice by 15/16. Then it went sour again and they had red shirts & faces when relegated to L2 in 16/17. At end of 18/19 Robins were at the midtable mark.
Due to the world Covid-19 pandemic, Swindon's 19/20 L2 season ended incomplete during March '20. Town were 2nd but 'won' the division as champions based on pt/gm settlement. The next L1 season began in September. Town were relegated straight back to L2 in Apr '21. Next term 21/22 they were 6th and in p-os. Then 10th. In 23/24 Swindon were 19th in L2.

TRANMERE

League Two record from 11/12: 12 11 22 L1, 24 L2, 6 2 2 NL, 6 L2, 21 L1, 7 9 12 16 @ 29/4/24.
recent rel - '14 '20 L1, '15 L2 . promo - '19 L2, '18 NL . p-os - '16 '17 NL, '21 L2.
STATUS; northwest outfit who were on a slow decline from turn of the century. Playing in National League was a wake up call.
MANAGER; Nigel Adkins (2023)
previously Ian Dawes (2023), Micky Mellon (21-23), Ian Dawes (2021), Keith Hill (20-21), Mike Jackson (2020) .
ground: Prenton Park 16.5k . nickname: Whites . shirt: white, blue trim.
Covid restrictions: relaxed 26/1/22 - no covid pass or negative test (15/12/21).
fans allowed 19/7/21, 17/5/21 . No fans = Lockdown 3 @ 6/1/21, Tier 3 @ 31/12/20 . Tier 2 @ 27/11/20 = 2000 fans.

Falmer years - from 2011, no meetings.
WITHDEAN era from 1999 to 2011: Seasons 3 5 8-12 . 01/2 03/4 06/7-10/11 L1
League One - they might one day.
This Merseyside outfit gave a noughties impression of aiming for higher, without actually getting there. In fact they fell out of div1 (C'ship) in 2001, just as Seagulls
flew to loftier perches than old div3 (L2). While Brighton foraged for acceptance in the Championship, Tranmere Rovers (their name has Viking origins)
blundered about in League1. That division was our noughties battleground with dirty northern raiders, from which both clubs hoped to aspire.
01/2 - under Micky Adams; (A) Aug D 0-0. Under Peter Taylor; (H) Feb W 1-0 . BHA = 1st promo, TR midtable.
03/4 - under Mark McGhee; (A) Dec L 1-