Brighton's Analytics Bloom
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- Written by Christopher Morley
Given Brighton & Hove Albion's rapid ascent since Tony Bloom took ownership in the May of 2009, following his successful quest to secure funding for the then-new Falmer Stadium (known as the Amex since a sponsorship agreement with American Express), it can't be much of a surprise that other clubs cast their eyes upon the Seagulls' particular corner of Sussex with more than a little envy. Chelsea's experiment with Graham Potter and his subsequent raid on his old club for staff and a few choice additions to his squad is perhaps the most radical example, even if ultimately that backfired on the Blues!
Time now for our first new away day adventure of the 2024/25 season. I had earmarked Oxford United for last season, but a pesky international break had put paid to that when the club had their game against Lincoln City postponed due to national call-ups. So, it made sense to scratch that itch next and on November 23rd I and four friends made the trip to the most famous of university cities, to watch The U's take on play-off chasing Middlesbrough. Michael Carrick's team having ominously discovered the goal-scoring touch in their previous two games, by scoring nine.
