Premier League table

How a Little-Known Rule Has Arsenal Above Chelsea - You Won't Believe It!

Why is Arsenal floating above Chelsea in the standings despite identical records? The answer will surprise you!

As the Premier League season progresses, the competition intensifies, and fans find themselves asking curious questions about their beloved teams. A hot topic currently swirling around Arsenal and Chelsea is how the Gunners are perched above the Blues in the league table, even when both clubs seem neck-and-neck with identical records in wins, losses, and draws. With both clubs racking up +12 goal differences and having scored the same number of goals, it seems unfair to think one should be ranked higher than the other based solely on the conventional stats.

What many fans don’t realize is that there’s a little-known rule behind the ordering of teams in the league table. The primary factor is points, of course, but what happens when teams are tied on points, goal difference, and goals scored? Enter the next rule in line: the team that has scored more goals comes first. Seems straightforward, right? But when it comes to Arsenal and Chelsea, it gets even more interesting – they share identical goal stats, hence the next criteria kicks in!

Once teams are still tied after those initial metrics, the next deciding factor becomes the disciplinary records. Yes, you read that correctly! The number of yellow and red cards picked up during the season can sway the standings. Arsenal, this season, has enjoyed slightly better behavior on the pitch compared to Chelsea, which is how they find themselves ahead of their crosstown rivals. Who knew that obeying the referee could be so beneficial in the cutthroat world of football?

But wait, this isn’t purely a matter of friendly rivalry. The peculiarities of the Premier League rules make for riveting conversations in pubs around London. In fact, there have been instances in the past where clubs with identical records often find themselves parting ways based on the most unexpected criteria. So when you're next out with friends, you can share the fun fact that good behaviour might just be the secret weapon to help your team rise to the top!

Speaking of good behaviour, did you know that the team with the best disciplinary record not only has a shot at improving their league standing but could also walk away with the Fair Play award at the end of the season? What’s more, that award comes with an enticing spot in European competitions!

As for Premier League finishes, you might like to know that the league has seen teams from various unexpected situations find their way to the top. Remember that time Leicester City won the title against all odds? Football is never without its surprises! Always keep your eye on the scoresheets and the rulebooks, because in this game, every little detail counts!