18-04-2024, 01:21 PM
(18-04-2024, 12:54 PM)Brekkie Wrote: 20 odd years ago though the Champions League had a second group stage which this new format is no longer than, so if they could have replays then no reason not to now.
Putting TV viewers above fans in the grounds though. There are pros and cons and the debate moving forward will vary depending on results. I'd say the PL teams being able to hold on an extra 30 minutes with stronger strength in depth and higher fitness levels the chance of upsets. It's extra games they see as a disadvantage.
Shame the Cup Final moves again from the final match of the eason, devaluing it further. Seems though it's position changes every few years but surely better for players to have the majority of players get an extra weeks break before international tournaments.
It will benefit match going fans, with the no replays scheduled with eight days notice and the next round's schedule will be finalised a week earlier. That is presuming the rounds are spaced out as they were before. And less PL fixtures will be displaced.
Scheduling of the matches will be more difficult though, I agree. The late Saturday match will likely not be taking place before 17:30 to allow 3pm shootouts to be not clash, and that is the slot where travel appears to be the most prone to difficulties.
I guess it will be a case of wait and see. It will be a bit like the scrapping of away goals in Europe, where there hasn't been a dramatic increase in extra times and penalties (just three shootouts this season, the first since the 2016 final), but many online this week were making a point it is more entertaining.
The Premier League press release is framing the move of the final as it guarantees the EFL Play-Off finals will be on the May bank holiday weekend with Wembley more likely to be free.