Boxing Day Christmas crackers: Classic encounters from recent years

Bolton 4-3 Newcastle, 2002Defending often seems to take Christmas off and 2002 was no exception. When three goals were scored in the first ten minutes, it was clear football fans were in for a festive treat. An Alan Shearer equaliser in between goals from Jay-Jay Okocha and Ricardo Gardner set the tone for a thrilling encounter. Michael Ricketts, who once played for England, scored a brace before Shola Ameobi and Shearer set up a tense finish.

Roman Abramovich’s first blue Christmas didn’t quite go to plan. It took Charlton just 42 seconds to take the lead. John Terry did equalise but the Addicks were in winter wonderland as they cruised to a 4-1 lead with goals from Matt Holland, Jonatan…