Minnows cashing in on shocks
HAVING put the Championship sides to the sword, the EFL’s minnows are ready for the Premier League big boys in the Carabao Cup.
Stockport and Tranmere, from League Two, and League One’s Bolton, Fleetwood, Barnsley, Oxford United and Cambridge are primed for action in the competition’s second round this week.
Amazingly, only two of the 14 Championship sides facing lower league opposition in the first round survived.
Much of the unprecedented giant-killing has been put down to Championship managers fielding weakened sides, leading to claims that the League Cup has had its day and should be scrapped.
But try telling that to supporters of League One and Two clubs ready to welcome Newcastle, Aston Villa and Leicester, ensuring above average crowds.
Micky Mellon’s Tranmere, who meet Newcastle on Wednesday night, will also be cashing in through the game being televised live by Sky Sports.
Twenty-four hours earlier, Bolton’s home tie against Aston Villa has also been selected by Sky.
And, with school holidays in mind, most of the smaller clubs are offering cut-price tickets.
The dearest seat for League One Forest Green Rovers’ clash against Brighton is £14, with Under-11s being allowed in free with an adult.
Stockport have been rewarded with a visit from Leicester City.
League One Fleetwood face Everton in a repeat of the 2020 tie in which Carlo Ancelotti’s side ran out 5-2 winners – although it was an uneasy night for keeper Jordan Pickford, who was responsible for the home side’s goals.
Barnsley are making the short trip to Leeds United, Oxford United take on Crystal Palace and Southampton go to Cambridge United.