basement battler

English

Etymology

A metaphor, likening the lower part of the sports table to the basement of a house.

Noun

basement battler (plural basement battlers)

1. (idiomatic, sports) A team in or around the relegation zone.
   • 2010 December 28, Marc Vesty, “Stoke 0 - 2 Fulham”, in BBC‎:

     The Cottagers had previously gone eight games without a win and had slipped into the relegation zone over Christmas, with boss Hughes criticised by fans after their 3-1 home defeat by fellow basement battlers West Ham on Boxing Day.