Sports
Chelsea player ratings: James 8/10 for stunning free kick in thrilling draw at Newcastle
Chelsea completed a remarkable second-half comeback to leave St James’ Park with a 2-2 draw after Newcastle United had roared into a 2-0 halftime lead in a breathless Premier League encounter.
A brilliant free kick from captain Reece James on 49 minutes — Chelsea’s 50th goal in all competitions this season — completely changed the complexion of a game that Newcastle looked in danger of running away with at the break. João Pedro then drew Chelsea level on 66 minutes, showing the coolest of heads to slot past Aaron Ramsdale in the Newcastle goal.
Inspired by England‘s Anthony Gordon, Newcastle began the game at a pace that Chelsea simply couldn’t handle. After a miserable afternoon in the Tyne-Wear derby last weekend, the home side’s fans were given the perfect antidote to that shock defeat to Sunderland in an incredible opening 45 minutes.
Nick Woltemade was the pantomime villain in that derby-day defeat, scoring an own goal as the Black Cats won that match 1-0. But it took him just four minutes to erase that memory by opening the scoring, and he added a second goal on 20 minutes.
At that point, Chelsea’s UEFA Champions League push looked to have stalled completely. But after their second-half comeback, they head into the festive period in high spirits.
Positives
Completely overrun in the first half, Chelsea looked shell-shocked as Newcastle sprinted into a 2-0 lead. But their second-half display showed this is a side who never known when they’re beaten.
Negatives
Chelsea can’t afford to start matches the way they started this one. Their defending for the second goal, when Woltemade was played onside, also needs addressing. The effort required to pull this game back might also be a concern ahead of a hectic Christmas period, although this is a side with strength in depth.
Manager rating out of 10
Enzo Maresca, 8 — Chelsea were slow to react to Newcastle’s high press in a first half that the Geordies utterly dominated, but it must have been some halftime team talk from their manager. His Chelsea side were completely unrecognizable in a brilliant second-half performance.
Player ratings (1-10; 10 = best, players introduced after 70 minutes get no rating)
GK Robert Sánchez, 7 — Pulled off a great save to deny Anthony Gordon on four minutes but was powerless to stop the loose ball from being slammed home by Woltemade, and there was nothing he could do about Newcastle’s second. Also claimed an assist with his long kick upfield that led to João Pedro’s leveler.
DF Marc Cucurella, 7 — The man rival fans just to love to hate. Never relinquished his defensive duties but still a threat going forward as Chelsea fought their way back into the game.
DF Trevoh Chalobah, 6 — Too slow to move up for Newcastle’s second goal and struggled against their aggressive forward line in the opening period. More than made up for it as part of a stunning second-half performance from the visitors, although he may consider himself fortunate not to concede a penalty for a barge on Gordon.
DF Wesley Fofana, 6 — Gave away the ball for Newcastle’s first goal, as Gordon dispossessed the defender as he moved into Chelsea’s midfield.
DF Malo Gusto, 5 –– Booked in the first half for protesting over the non-award of a free kick. Never let his head drop in the face of Newcastle’s bombardment but not given a moment’s peace by Gordon. Replaced early in the second half.
MF Moisés Caicedo, 7 — Most of Chelsea’s best work revolves around the Ecuador international, but Newcastle’s incredible midfield running meant he couldn’t bring his influence to bear until the second half. Instrumental in some of Chelsea’s best moments as they clawed their way back into the game.
MF Reece James, 8 — Never given an opportunity to settle as Newcastle’s midfield over-ran their London opponents in the first half but started the second period with a sensational free kick that completely changed the momentum of the game. Did superbly at right back after Enzo Fernández‘s introduction.
MF Alejandro Garnacho, 5 — Booked in the first half, and lucky to escape a red card, which was probably his most significant contribution of a forgettable opening period for the visitors. Did have a powerful shot blocked but struggled to make an impact against an inexperienced full-back in the form of Lewis Miley.
MF Cole Palmer, 6 — An elegant chip within the first two minutes gave notice of his attacking intentions but rarely threatened thereafter. He will have better afternoons and is still the Chelsea player most capable of moments of magic.
MF Pedro Neto, 7 — Had a goal disallowed as the clock ticked down in the first half, with the Portugal winger adjudged to have handled. One of Chelsea’s most lively attackers in a true game of two halves.
FW João Pedro, 7 — Largely anonymous as Chelsea’s attacking opportunities were strictly limited in the first half but more than made up for it with the coolest of finishes to equalize, squeezing the ball past the on-rushing Ramsdale.
Substitutes
Enzo Fernández (Gusto, 54′), 7 — Brought on to bring some additional creativity to the Chelsea midfield, with James moving to right back. Fernández brought craft, energy and cool-head to the Blues’ engine room.
Andrey Santos (Palmer, 79′), N/R — Introduced in the last 10 minutes and understandably struggled to adapt to the pace of an incredible game.
Cricket’s return to the Olympic Games after 128 years reached an “important milestone” Wednesday when construction began on the new Los Angeles 2028 cricket venue.
International Cricket Council (ICC ) Chairman Jay Shah and other officials took part in a ground-breaking ceremony on the Fairplex Grounds in Pomona, Los Angeles County.
“Our focus has been on expanding the footprint of cricket and being part of the Olympic movement is something that brings both pride and dreams with it,” said Shah.
“The groundbreaking marks an important milestone in cricket’s return to the Olympics and is a proud moment for all ICC members and stakeholders worldwide.”
ICC chief executive Sanjog Gupta said the Games would be a significant step in expanding the game outside of its traditional heartlands.
“The momentum for our game has never been stronger, with strong participation growth across the world,” he said.
The inclusion of cricket at LA28 provides a platform to inspire more young people to take up the game, the ICC said, and broaden the fan base across continents, accelerating the game’s global growth.
Cricket at the Los Angeles Games will feature T20 competitions for both men’s and women’s teams.
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As the madness of March ends, the NBA postseason begins.
Let’s check out the odds for the first round of the playoffs, at DraftKings Sportsbook as of April 23.
This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.
EAST FIRST ROUND
No. 8 ORLANDO (+210) vs. No. 1 DETROIT (-255)
Tied 1-1
GAME 3 — DET @ ORL (April 25)
Spread: Pistons -2.5
Moneyline: Pistons -148, Magic +124
O/U: 213.5
What to know: Orlando got what it needed, splitting on Detroit’s home floor by winning Game 1. Will it take enough momentum back to its home arena? The Magic went 25-15 at home during the regular season and split two games against the Pistons in Orlando.
No. 7 PHILADELPHIA (+380) vs. No. 2 BOSTON (-500)
Tied 1-1
GAME 3 — BOS @ PHI (April 24)
Spread: Celtics -7.5
Moneyline: Celtics -298, 76ers +240
O/U: 215.5
What to know: Without Joel Embiid, the Sixers have a new dynamic duo in Tyrese Maxey and rookie VJ Edgecombe. The two combined for 59 points in Philly’s Game 2 win, including 11 3-pointers.
No. 6 ATLANTA (+155) vs. No. 3 NEW YORK (-185)
Tied 1-1
GAME 3 — NYK @ ATL (April 23)
Spread: Hawks -1.5
Moneyline: Hawks -110, Hawks -110
O/U: 216.5
What to know: The first two games were decided by a combined 12 points. Hawks guard CJ McCollum has been dominant, averaging 29 points on almost 55% shooting.
No. 5 TORONTO (+900) vs. No. 4 CLEVELAND (-1600)
CLE leads 2-0
GAME 3 — CLE @ TOR (April 23)
Spread: Cavs -3.5
Moneyline: Cavs -155, Raptors +130
O/U: 219.5
What to know: Toronto just hasn’t been in this series so far, which is a bit surprising, considering it swept Cleveland in the regular season. Brandon Ingram isn’t helping the Raptors’ cause, averaging 12 points on 33.3% shooting through two games.
WEST FIRST ROUND
No. 8 PHOENIX (+6000) vs. No. 1 OKLAHOMA CITY (-20000)
OKC leads 2-0
GAME 3 — OKC @ PHX (April 25)
Spread: Thunder -9.5
Moneyline: Thunder -455, Suns +350
O/U: 215.5
What to know: This one is shaping up to be a blowout, but there is cause for concern in OKC, after Jalen Williams suffered a hamstring injury in Game 2. However, on the season, the Thunder went 39-10 without their second star.
No. 7 PORTLAND (+350) vs. No. 2 SAN ANTONIO (-475)
Tied 1-1
GAME 3 — SAS @ POR (April 24)
Spread: Spurs -1.5
Moneyline: Spurs -130, Blazers +110
O/U: 220.5
What to know: How long will Victor Wembanyama be out? He suffered a concussion in Game 2, and is in concussion protocol, which almost assures he will miss multiple games. The Spurs went 12-6 without Wemby this season.
No. 6 MINNESOTA (+190) vs. No. 3 DENVER (-230)
Tied 1-1
GAME 3 — DEN @ MIN (April 23)
Spread: Nuggets -2.5
Moneyline: Nuggets -135, Wolves +114
O/U: 233.5
What to know: After the Wolves stole Game 2 in Denver, Jaden McDaniels said the Nuggets were full of “bad defenders.” Now it’s getting spicy. Through two games, Rudy Gobert has done a good job on Nikola Jokić, who is averaging 24.5 points on 48.7% shooting, 14 rebounds and 9.5 assists through two games. Pedestrian numbers for the Joker. Jokić is also 3-for-14 from 3 in the series.
No. 5 HOUSTON (+115) vs. No. 4 LA LAKERS (-135)
LAL leads 2-0
GAME 3 — LAL @ HOU (April 24)
Spread: Rockets -9.5
Moneyline: Rockets -395, Lakers +310
O/U: 205.5
What to know: Houston was heavily favored coming into this series, considering Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves are injured. But Kevin Durant missed Game 1 for Houston, and then he saw unlimited double-teams in Game 2, which helped the Lakers take control of the series and win both games at home.
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Fernando Mendoza is the biggest name, but not the only big name in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Let’s check out the Over/Under odds (at DraftKings Sportsbook as of April 22) for where some of the biggest names in this year’s draft might land.
This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.
Ty Simpson
Alabama — QB
Over 24.5: -270 (bet $10 to win $13.70 total)
Under 24.5: +195 (bet $10 to win $29.50 total)
What to know: Only two quarterbacks went in the first round last season, after the first three picks of the 2024 NFL Draft were QBs. The last Alabama QB to go in the first round was Bryce Young back in 2023, when he was selected No. 1 by the Panthers. Simpson is heavily favored (-2500) to be the second quarterback off the board in 2026.
Jeremiyah Love
Notre Dame — RB
Over 5.5: +275 (bet $10 to win $37.50 total)
Under 5.5: -400 (bet $10 to win $12.50 total)
What to know: The last time a running back went in the top five was back in 2018, when the Giants selected Saquon Barkley with the second overall pick. Ashton Jeanty went sixth to the Raiders last season.
Sonny Styles
Ohio State — LB
Over 5.5: -150 (bet $10 to win $16.67 total)
Under 5.5: +115 (bet $10 to win $21.50 total)
What to know: The last linebacker to go in the top five just so happens to be the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, Will Anderson Jr. He went to the Texans with the third pick in 2023. Now, Anderson mostly plays edge rusher for Houston.
Sonny Styles of Ohio State (Photo by James Black/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Carnell Tate
Ohio State — WR
Over 7.5: -135 (bet $10 to win $17.41 total)
Under 7.5: +105 (bet $10 to win $20.50 total)
What to know: If you count Travis Hunter as a wide receiver, then two wide receivers went in the top 10 in 2025: Hunter to Jacksonville at No. 2, and Tetairoa McMillan to Carolina at No. 8. Three wideouts went in the top 10 in 2024: Marvin Harrison Jr. to Arizona at No. 4, Malik Nabers to the Giants at No. 6 and Rome Odunze to Chicago at No. 9. Tate is favored (-175) to be the first wide receiver to come off the board in 2026.
Jordyn Tyson
Arizona State — WR
Over 8.5: +140 (bet $10 to win $24.00 total)
Under 8.5: -185 (bet $10 to win $15.41 total)
What to know: Jordyn Tyson’s odds to be a top-10 pick in the NFL Draft opened at +400 in March. They have since surged to -500 for him to go inside the top 10.
Caleb Downs
Ohio State — S
Over 9.5: -115 (bet $10 to win $18.70 total)
Under 9.5: -115 (bet $10 to win $18.70 total)
What to know: No safety has gone top-10 in the NFL Draft since Jamal Adams went sixth to the Jets back in 2017. Minkah Fitzpatrick went 11th to the Dolphins in 2018. Malaki Starks was the first safety selected last season, going 27th to Baltimore.
Rueben Bain Jr.
Miami FL — DL
Over 8.5: -400 (bet $10 to win $12.50 total)
Under 8.5: +270 (bet $10 to win $37 total)
What to know: Defensive linemen always go in the top 10. Since 2013, only twice has the top 10 not featured a defensive lineman — back in 2021 and then again in 2024.
Rueben Bain Jr. of Miami (Photo by CFP/Getty Images)
Spencer Fano
Utah — OL
Over 10.5: +100 (bet $10 to win $20.00 total)
Under 10.5: -130 (bet $10 to win $17.69 total)
What to know: Fano is a close second choice to be the first offensive lineman drafted on Thursday at +110, just behind Francis Mauigoa, who leads the market at -125.
Makai Lemon
USC — WR
Over 14.5: -130 (bet $10 to win $17.69 total)
Under 14.5: +100 (bet $10 to win $20.00 total)
What to know: Lemon is expected to be the third wide receiver off the board, behind Tate and Tyson. He’ll look to follow in the footsteps of recent USC wide receivers Jordan Addison (2023) and Drake London (2022), who were both selected in the first round.
Olaivavega Ioane
Penn State — OL
Over 14.5: +225 (bet $10 to win $32.50 total)
Under 14.5: -310 (bet $10 to win $13.23 total)
What to know: Ioane has the fifth-best odds (+1800) to be the first offensive lineman selected. That said, he is still firmly expected to be a first-round pick.
Kenyon Sadiq
Oregon — TE
Over 15.5: -115 (bet $10 to win $18.70 total)
Under 15.5: -120 (bet $10 to win $18.33 total)
What to know: Colston Loveland (No. 10 to Chicago) and Tyler Warren (No. 14 to Indianapolis) both went in the top 15 last season. Brock Bowers went 13th to Las Vegas in 2024, and Kyle Pitts went fourth to Atlanta in 2021. In other words, the tight end position is on the rise when it comes to the first half of the first round. Sadiq is expected to be the first tight end off the board in 2026.
Kadyn Proctor
Alabama — OL
Over 16.5: +145 (bet $10 to win $24.50 total)
Under 16.5: -195 (bet $10 to win $15.13 total)
What to know: Proctor is the third choice (+950) to be the first offensive lineman drafted, behind Mauigoa (-125) and Fano (+110).
Dillon Thieneman
Oregon — S
Over 17.5: -215 (bet $10 to win $14.65 total)
Under 17.5: +155 (bet $10 to win $25.50 total)
What to know: Thieneman is heavily favored (-400) to be the second safety off the board, behind Downs. In 2025, only one safety was selected in the first round. That likely won’t be the case this year, with Thieneman expected to be selected in the middle of the first round.
Dillon Thieneman of Oregon (Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Monroe Freeling
Georgia — OL
Over 19.5: +185 (bet $10 to win $28.50 total)
Under 19.5: -250 (bet $10 to win $14.00 total)
What to know: In 2025, eight offensive linemen were selected in the first round, and a similar number is expected in 2026, with Freeling projected to be among them.
Omar Cooper Jr.
Indiana — WR
Over 23.5: +120 (bet $10 to win $22.00 total)
Under: 23.5: -160 (bet to win $16.25 total)
What to know: Cooper is projected to be the fourth or fifth wide receiver selected. If he goes in the first round, he would become the first Indiana receiver drafted in the opening round since Thomas Lewis in 1994.
KC Concepcion
Texas A&M — WR
Over 24.5: +100 (bet $10 to win $20 total)
Under: 24.5: -130 (bet to win $17.69 total)
What to know: Counting Travis Hunter as a wide receiver, four total wide receivers were selected in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. In 2024, seven wide receivers went in the first round. This year, the line is set at 5.5 wide receivers selected in Round 1, with the over juiced to -165.
Akheem Mesidor
Miami FL — EDGE
Over 25.5: -105 (bet $10 to win $19.52 total)
Under 25.5: -125 (bet $10 to win $18.00 total)
What to know: Mesidor is expected to be the fourth or fifth edge rusher selected, behind Arvell Reese, David Bailey, and his college teammate Rueben Bain Jr. He and Auburn’s Keldric Faulk are likely next in line.
Denzel Boston
Washington — WR
Over 26.5: -125 (bet $10 to win $18.00 total)
Under 26.5: -105 (bet $10 to win $19.52 total)
What to know: Boston will look to follow in the footsteps of former Washington Huskies wide receivers Rome Odunze and John Ross, who were both selected in the first round. He is expected to be among the five or six wide receivers selected in this year’s first round.
Jermod McCoy
Tennessee — CB
Over 28.5: -150 (bet $10 to win $16.67 total)
Under: 28.5: +115 (bet to win $21.50 total)
What to know: After Mansoor Delane (-5000 to be the first cornerback selected), McCoy is tied with Colton Hood and Chris Johnson at +175 to be the second cornerback drafted. In 2025, three cornerbacks were selected in the first round.
Chris Johnson
San Diego State — CB
Over 32.5: +180 (bet $10 to win $28.00 total)
Under 32.5: -250 (bet $10 to win $14.00 total)
What to know: At the beginning of April, Chris Johnson’s odds to be selected in the first round of the NFL Draft opened at +550. He is one of the fastest rising prospects and is now -250 to go in the first.
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