Football Daily 72+: The EFL Podcast
May 24, 2025
Join former Huddersfield player Tommy Smith, who knows the highs of play-off victories, as he shares insights on Sunderland's thrilling win over Sheffield United in the Championship play-off final. They explore the emotional rollercoaster of both teams, the impact of controversial VAR decisions, and what lies ahead for each club. Delve into the resilience of Sunderland's young squad, the role of experienced players, and even a quirky chat about unusual beverage choices at Wembley. Football banter at its best!
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Sunderland's Second-Half Momentum Shift
- Sunderland's comeback in the second half showed a strong shift in momentum and belief.
- Young players like Tommy Watson stepped up decisively to change the game's outcome.
Tommy Watson's Triumph Amidst Adversity
- Young Sunderland player Tommy Watson scored the winning goal despite being abused by fans for his transfer.
- He became a club hero by securing promotion against expectations and pressure.
VAR's Impact in Playoff Final
- VAR introduced only for playoff final caused controversy given the season-long absence.
- It spotlighted challenges balancing fairness and consistency in football officiating.