In the Carabao Cup third round draw last month, Barrow were drawn to play an away game against Premier League heavyweights Chelsea. According to The Telegraph, Barrow’s players were given a greater financial incentive to lose that third round game than they were to win.
According to the media outlet, Barrow’s team could receive different bonuses depending on the outcome of the match; if they win, they will receive a significantly lower sum of around £250 compared to the £1,000 payment they would each be required to pay if they lose. This revelation has raised concerns about the integrity of the competition, as it appears that Barrow’s players had a strong financial incentive to deliberately lose the clash.
A match where losers win
Barrow’s bonus structure does not technically breach any regulations, but the English Football League (EFL) is said to be angered by it and is expecting the club to explain itself, as it is the first time a club has offered a higher bonus for a defeat than for a win.
The bonus sheet contains numerous inaccuracies which will be corrected, a Barrow source told the Telegraph, and the EFL has been informed. Barrow will face Chelsea on September 25 at Stamford Bridge.
