Scoring a goal in English football is an achievement celebrated at every level, but doing so across all England’s Top Five Leagues elevates a player into an exclusive group.
Ipswich Town’s Jack Taylor joined this illustrious club when he netted an injury-time winner against Wolves in the Premier League. The 26-year-old midfielder’s journey through the tiers exemplifies resilience and adaptability, a trait shared by a select group of players. Here, we explore Taylor’s feat and the stories of other players who have achieved this rare milestone.
Jack Taylor: A Testament to Persistence
Jack Taylor’s rise began in England’s lower leagues, where he played for Barnet in the National League and League Two. He progressed to League One and the Championship with Peterborough United before making his Premier League debut with Ipswich Town in 2023. Taylor’s goal against Wolves marked a significant milestone not just for him but also for Ipswich, as he became the second player from the club after Sammie Szmodics to score in all five divisions.
Reflecting on Taylor’s journey, Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna highlighted his professionalism and dedication. “From starting in the National League to scoring in the Premier League, it’s a testament to Jack’s character and the group’s incredible journey,” McKenna said.
Gary Hooper: The Seven-League Record Holder
Gary Hooper stands alone as the only player to have scored in England’s top seven divisions. Beginning in the Conference South and National League with Grays Athletic, Hooper ascended the ranks, scoring in League One for Southend United and in the Championship for Scunthorpe United. His time in the Premier League with Norwich City added another chapter, as did his ventures abroad in Australia, India, and beyond.
Despite his global career, Hooper returned to England’s lower leagues, netting twice for Barnet in the National League and even scoring in the seventh-tier Southern League Premier Division Central for Kettering Town in 2023.
Steve Finnan: From Non-League to Liverpool Legend
Steve Finnan’s journey began in the Conference with Welling United, before he moved up to score in the Football League for Notts County and Fulham. The Irish defender eventually reached the Premier League with Liverpool, where he famously netted his only top-flight goal in a 3-0 win over West Brom in 2004. Finnan’s story is unique, as he combined defensive reliability with the rare distinction of scoring in all five divisions.
Jimmy Willis: The Forgotten Pioneer
Jimmy Willis, a towering defender from the 1980s and 1990s, claimed his place in history through sheer grit. He scored for Darlington in the Conference and fourth tier before finding the net for Leicester City in the Championship and Premier League. His third-tier goal came during a loan spell with Bradford, completing his set. Willis’ accomplishment came to light after a casual revelation in 2007, reminding fans of his significant yet understated contribution.
Ryan Yates: Nottingham Forest’s Homegrown Hero
Ryan Yates, a Nottingham Forest stalwart, achieved his milestone through loan spells across the divisions. He scored for Barrow in the National League, Notts County in League Two, and Scunthorpe United in League One before becoming a vital part of Forest’s rise to the Premier League. His two Premier League goals in 2024 solidified his legacy as a one-club player with a journey spanning all five tiers.
Sammie Szmodics: The Ipswich Trailblazer
Sammie Szmodics was the first Ipswich player to join the top-five-tiers club, achieving the feat earlier in the 2023-24 season. His career began with Colchester United in League Two and League One, with a stint in the National League at Braintree. Szmodics later scored in the Championship with Blackburn and Peterborough before signing for Ipswich. His Premier League breakthrough came with a goal against Manchester City, further cementing his place in the history books.
Scoring Across England’s Top Five Leagues
Scoring in England’s top five divisions is a rare feat, requiring not just skill but adaptability, perseverance, and a bit of luck. Players like Jack Taylor, Gary Hooper, and Steve Finnan have proven that determination can transcend league boundaries, creating unforgettable moments in the history of English football.
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