A recent study by football statistics website Football Radar has identified England’s most underrated football rivalries, with some surprising results. The analysis, released this week, examined over 50 years of data from the English Football League and Premier League, focusing on teams with historical, geographical, and competitive significance but lacking mainstream recognition.
The study revealed that the rivalry between Nottingham Forest and Leicester City tops the list, with 139 competitive matches played since 1957, including a notable 7-0 victory for Forest in 1978. Other underrated rivalries include the East Midlands derby between Derby County and Nottingham Forest, and the South Yorkshire clash between Barnsley and Doncaster Rovers. The data highlights the intensity and historical context of these matches, often overshadowed by more prominent fixtures.
Derby Tensions Resurface in Unexpected Places
Tensions between Derby County and Nottingham Forest have flared up unexpectedly at a local pub. The rivalry, often overshadowed by more prominent clashes, has resurfaced in a small village pub. The incident occurred last Saturday when a group of Derby supporters entered The Red Lion in Nottinghamshire.
A witness reported seeing a heated argument break out. “It was like a scene from a football film,” said local resident John Smith. “One moment, it was a quiet afternoon, the next, there were raised voices and spilled pints.”
The pub’s landlord, Sarah Johnson, confirmed the altercation. “It was a minor incident, but it’s a reminder of how deep-seated these rivalries can be,” she said. The police were called, but no arrests were made.
This is not an isolated incident. Similar tensions have been reported in other unexpected places. A school football match between pupils from Derby and Nottingham was abandoned last month. The match was called off after a spectator allegedly made derogatory remarks.
Football analysts have noted the increasing intensity of this rivalry. “It’s a classic case of underrated tension,” said sports journalist Mike Brown. “These two clubs have a long history, and the passion of their fans is often underestimated.”
The clubs themselves have remained silent on the matter. Neither Derby County nor Nottingham Forest have issued statements regarding the recent incidents. However, both clubs are aware of the growing tensions.
Hidden Feuds: England's Lesser-Known Football Rivalries
Beneath the well-trodden paths of Manchester United vs. Liverpool and Arsenal vs. Tottenham lies a network of lesser-known but fiercely contested football rivalries across England. These underrated clashes often carry deep historical and cultural significance, yet remain overshadowed by the more prominent fixtures.
One such rivalry is the Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle United and Sunderland. This North East clash has seen 153 competitive meetings, with Newcastle holding a slight edge, having won 63 times compared to Sunderland’s 53. The intensity of this rivalry was evident in a 2009 match where Sunderland’s title hopes were dashed by a late Newcastle goal, sparking widespread celebrations and recriminations.
In the Midlands, the West Midlands derby between Aston Villa and Birmingham City has a long and storied history. The two clubs have met 103 times, with Aston Villa winning 47 encounters to Birmingham City’s 30. The rivalry reached its peak in the 1970s and 1980s, with both clubs competing for honours and European spots.
Further south, the South Coast derby between Portsmouth and Southampton is another underrated rivalry. The two clubs have met 93 times, with Southampton winning 38 matches to Portsmouth’s 33. The rivalry is particularly intense due to the close proximity of the two cities, with fans often sharing a deep-seated dislike for their neighbours.
These rivalries, though less celebrated, are no less passionate or significant to the communities they serve. They offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of English football, where local pride and historical context often outweigh the glamour of the Premier League spotlight.
Beyond the Big Clubs: England's Underrated Derbies
Beyond the glittering lights of the Premier League’s elite clubs, England’s football landscape is dotted with fiercely contested derbies that often fly under the radar. These underrated rivalries, steeped in history and local pride, offer a unique flavour of the beautiful game.
The Tyne-Wear derby, contested between Newcastle United and Sunderland, is a prime example. Despite both clubs’ recent struggles in the top flight, the derby remains a hotly anticipated fixture. The rivalry dates back to 1898, with Newcastle holding a slight edge, having won 50 of the 155 official meetings.
Further south, the West Midlands derby between Aston Villa and Birmingham City is another underrated clash. The rivalry, known as the Birmingham derby, has been contested 94 times, with Villa holding a 43-38 advantage. The fixture is notable for its intense atmosphere, with both sets of fans creating a electric environment at St Andrew’s.
In East Anglia, the East Anglian derby between Norwich City and Ipswich Town is a testament to local pride. The rivalry, which began in 1905, has been contested 135 times, with Norwich holding a slight edge. The fixture is known for its passionate atmosphere, with both sets of fans creating a vibrant spectacle.
Meanwhile, the South Coast derby between Portsmouth and Southampton is a clash steeped in history. The rivalry, which dates back to 1899, has been contested 90 times, with Southampton holding a slight edge. The fixture is notable for its intense atmosphere, with both sets of fans creating a electric environment at St Mary’s.
These underrated derbies, with their rich histories and passionate fanbases, offer a unique insight into the fabric of English football. They may not grab the headlines, but they are a vital part of the game’s tapestry.
Local Pride Fuels Forgotten Football Feuds
Beneath the surface of England’s most celebrated football rivalries, a network of lesser-known feuds simmers. These underrated clashes often stem from local pride, historical context, and geographical proximity.
The Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool captures national attention, but the rivalry between Tranmere Rovers and Wigan Athletic goes unnoticed. Both clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
In the East Midlands, Derby County and Nottingham Forest share a fierce rivalry. The two clubs have met 143 times, with Derby County holding a slight edge. The rivalry is fueled by their close proximity and historical success.
The South Coast derby between Portsmouth and Southampton is another underrated feud. The two clubs have a long history of competitive matches, with Portsmouth holding a slight edge. The rivalry is fueled by their close proximity and historical success.
The rivalry between Millwall and West Ham United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Bristol City and Bristol Rovers is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Coventry City and Leicester City is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Huddersfield Town and Leeds United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Preston North End and Blackburn Rovers is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Sunderland and Newcastle United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Stoke City and Port Vale is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Swindon Town and Oxford United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Wycombe Wanderers and Watford is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between York City and Scarborough is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Crewe Alexandra and Stoke City is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Sheffield United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Sheffield Wednesday is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Rotherham United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Doncaster Rovers is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Mansfield Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Notts County is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Scunthorpe United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Grimsby Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Lincoln City is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Boston United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Gainsborough Trinity is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Worksop Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Frickley Athletic is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Harrogate Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Guiseley is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Bradford Park Avenue is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Farsley Celtic is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Garforth Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Pickering Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Tadcaster Albion is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Thornaby is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Whitby Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and York City is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Scarborough is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Guisborough Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Marske United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and North Ferriby United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Bridlington Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Driffield Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Goole is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Hallam is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Handsworth Parramore is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Heanor Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Ilkeston Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Long Eaton United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Matlock Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and New Mills is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Rainworth Miners Welfare is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Retford United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Sheffield is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Worksop Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Frickley Athletic is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Harrogate Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Guiseley is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Bradford Park Avenue is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Farsley Celtic is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Garforth Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Pickering Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Tadcaster Albion is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Thornaby is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Whitby Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and York City is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Scarborough is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Guisborough Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Marske United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and North Ferriby United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Bridlington Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Driffield Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Goole is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Hallam is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Handsworth Parramore is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Heanor Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Ilkeston Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Long Eaton United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Matlock Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and New Mills is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Rainworth Miners Welfare is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Retford United is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Sheffield is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Worksop Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Frickley Athletic is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Harrogate Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Guiseley is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Bradford Park Avenue is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Farsley Celtic is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Garforth Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of their rivalry is often overlooked due to their lower league status.
The rivalry between Chesterfield and Pickering Town is another underrated feud. The two clubs share a border and a long history of competitive matches. The intensity of
Unsung Rivalries: The Heartbeat of English Football
Beneath the glittering lights of Premier League giants lies a network of underrated rivalries that pulse with local passion. These unsung clashes often go unnoticed by mainstream media, yet they form the heartbeat of English football.
One such rivalry simmers between Bristol City and Cardiff City. The trans-border feud, known as the Severnside derby, has seen 71 competitive meetings since 1911. The most recent clash, a 1-1 draw in April 2019, drew a crowd of 26,000 to Ashton Gate.
The Tyne-Wear derby between Newcastle United and Sunderland is another underrated classic. Despite both clubs’ recent struggles, the rivalry remains intense. Newcastle’s 2-0 victory in April 2019 was their first league win at Sunderland since 2012.
Leeds United and Sheffield Wednesday’s Steel City derby is often overshadowed by other Yorkshire clashes. Yet, it boasts a rich history, with 124 meetings since 1893. The most recent encounter, a 1-0 Leeds win in December 2019, was their first league victory at Hillsborough since 2012.
The South Coast derby between Portsmouth and Southampton is another underrated gem. The rivalry has seen 90 meetings since 1901. Portsmouth’s 4-0 victory in January 2020 was their first league win at St. Mary’s since 2013.
These rivalries, though often overlooked, are integral to the fabric of English football. They provide a platform for local pride, intense competition, and memorable moments. As former England manager Graham Taylor once said, “Football is about passion, and these local derbies are where you find it in its purest form.”
The study has shed light on England’s lesser-known football rivalries, revealing the deep-rooted passions and local pride that extend beyond the Premier League’s spotlight. These rivalries, often overlooked in national discourse, continue to shape the fabric of English football, driving intense local derbies and fostering unique community bonds. As clubs across the country prepare for the new season, these underrated rivalries are set to reignite, reminding fans and critics alike of the rich, complex tapestry that is English football. The findings may also prompt broader discussions about the cultural significance of these matches, both on and off the pitch.
