The
English Premier League, also known as the EPL, is one of the most popular football leagues in the world. Fans around the globe tune in every week to watch the matches and cheer on their favorite teams. However, there are some interesting and lesser-known facts about the EPL that may surprise even the most avid football fans. 1. Small Teams Can Win Big While top Premier League teams like Manchester United, Manchester City, and Liverpool consistently dominate in the league rankings, smaller teams have proven they can still compete at the highest level. In the 2015-16 season, Leicester City shocked the world by winning the title – a team that had been considered relegation fodder at the start of the season. This win sent shockwaves through the football community and proved that anything is possible in the EPL. 2. Bad Weather Can Force Game Cancellations Premier League games are rarely cancelled, but occasionally bad weather conditions can make it impossible to play safely. In the 2010-11 season, storms and heavy snowfall caused the postponement of several matches, resulting in a backlog for the teams involved. Groundskeepers work hard to ensure that pitches are well-maintained and safe for play, but nature can be unpredictable – even in the UK. 3. The Origin of the EPL's Name The Premier League was formerly known as The Football League First Division until 1992, when it was rebranded as the Premier League due to its increased popularity and lucrative broadcasting deals. The new name also reflected the growing global appeal of English football, which was becoming more marketable and profitable. 4. Referees are Mic'd Up Premier League referees are equipped with earpieces and microphones that allow them to communicate with each other during games. This technology helps officials make better decisions on the field and reduces the likelihood of mistakes. Fans can even listen in to the referee's conversation through special broadcasts that are available in some countries. 5. It's not Just About the Score While many fans focus on the final score of a Premier League match, other factors come into play when ranking teams. The number of goals scored and conceded, goal difference, and head-to-head record are all taken into account when calculating a team's final position in the league table. This means that even if a team wins by a small margin, their performance throughout the season will also be analyzed to determine their overall ranking. In conclusion, the English Premier League is full of surprises and interesting tidbits that go beyond the action on the pitch. From weather cancellations to mic'd up referees, there are many lesser-known facts that make the EPL even more fascinating to watch. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, these cold facts are sure to add a new dimension to your viewing experience.
