BPL: British Revolution

Great Britain is quite familiar with Monarchy (I hope you knew that), but it is also no secret that the soccer pitch in Britain is also ruled by royalty in the form of teams that have dominated the British Premier League (for as long as I can remember). 

For the casual soccer fan, these teams are recognizable. Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal, and in recent years Manchester City has solidified itself among this group. An upper middle class has formed with teams including Liverpool and Tottenham. 

But there is one "lower-class" team that has "REVOLUTION!" on their minds (and in their shoes).

Two years ago, Leicester City (pronounced Lester City) found themselves on top...of the Football League Championship. Never heard of that league? Neither had I until I realized that it is the equivalent to Minor League baseball. The way British club football works is that the top three teams in each "league" at the end of the season move up to the next higher league and the three bottom teams move down to the next lower league. Each season there is a lot of movement up an down with the Premier League (BPL) being the cream of the crop...where the royalty rule.

It is this Leicester City team that is throwing a wrench in the royalty this year. As mentioned previously, it was only two years ago that they were in the Championship League and are now only one year removed from a 14th place finish in the BPL only closely being saved from relegation. This season, the Foxes of Leicester City F.C. are no where near relegation but have another matter on their hands: winning the BPL.

Yes, I said winning...as in the entire league for the entire season. This past weekend, the Foxes had a chance to secure a League title with a win of perennial power (and arguably the royal of royals), Manchester United. Though the match ended in a tie, the Foxes are still likely to clinch the win. The match today between royal Chelsea and upper-middle Tottenham could give Leicester City the title...but only if Chelsea wins (oh yeah, that game is starting right now).

Could this be the revolution and the downfall of the British (soccer) Monarchy? As the magic 8-ball says, "All signs point to NO." It wasn't that long ago that Manchester City found themselves often on the outside looking in. They are now considered a power in the BPL. The next question the is will Leicester City become the next to become a part of the Monarchy? I am also going to say no on this as well. This is an impressive season...a historic season...but when it is all said and done, it is just one season. I do not foresee the Monarchy allowing an outsider to spoil their fun (and UEFA Champions League) fun...not for long. 

Good run though, Foxes, and for the sake of history, I hope you get the BPL title this season.


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