I just found an article about Premier league review where were someone's prediction's from before the start of the season. I thought it would be a brilliant idea to look at my predictions, however I didn't think of that before. So I am going to try to predict next season, so I can look here in a year time and see how accurate I was. Not to make it only so boring I am also going to sum up the previous season on which I basically make my predictions (The numbers in brackets are Christmas standings).
Premier League 2017/2018
1. Manchester United (3rd)
The thing with Man U is that you can't say they had a disappointing season despite finishing 6th. How crazy is that? They won Community shield, EFL cup, unbeaten in 29 games and playing final in Europa league (which might mean a possible Champions league place). You just can't call that unsuccessful. Having said that finishing outside top four has been going on for way too long (expect one occasion which wasn't real stunner really). It was Jose's first season and the way they played their first game and their final one, is significantly different. There is definitely starting to show a Mourinho impact on the team. The only thing that cost them a top finish were all those draws. Jose is going to work on that during the summer and also he might bring a few more new faces in. Anyway Man United did well, but the result wasn't pleasant. That's why I think next year it's going to work out just perfect.
2. Manchester City (2nd)
Pep Guardiola's only achievement was finishing in top four last season which is a big smack in the face for Pep and city fans. They are playing an attractive football, but it was just not enough to be any sort of a threat for the league leaders. To be fighting to stay in top four till the last game of the season is quite shameful. Pep has certainly learned a lesion that Premier league is no fairy tale walk and will produce a decent team competing to win the league. I think the deciding fact, that they won't win the league will come a couple of matches early.
3. Chelsea (1st)
Conte is a sensational manager as last season showed. They deserved the title with the way they were playing. Even if Costa leaves they still have plenty of great players. I don't think they will go mental in transfer window, having just won the league, but if they sign one or two young talented players, Conte can let one or two of his key players go (he should keep hold of Kante though). He will be seriously one of the strongest managers to beat, but he won't be winning forever. They'll be top at Christmas, but the luck will turn the back on them. A couple of draws along the way will put them in 3rd just behind blue team from Manchester. 1-2 points behind, maybe decided on goal difference. It will be a tight run.
4. Arsenal (4th)
Oh, how useless Arsenal and Wenger were in last season. Being an Arsenal fan must hurt. I believe that we've just seen Wenger's last season at Emirates. The question is, who will replace him? It will be very hard to answer that question, but if somebody capable will step in Arsene's shoes, they will do well. Which means 4th, as usual. But you never know. It;s Arsenal. They sign Alan Pardew and Arsenal will be lucky to get to the top half. It will be decisive who will lead north-London team in next season. If I'm wrong and Wenger stays, my prediction will stay the same. They will be though to beat, but they will be possible to beat.
5. Liverpool (8th)
Scousers will face another disappointing season after being almost out of Champions league. Jurgen Klopp is a great man, doing a great job, but nobody can do magic. Managing Liverpool side and expect to win trophies is like cooking an exact portion of spaghetti for one. It is possible, but nobody has ever done it and nobody ever will. Southampton did rather well last season, so we can expect some more signings in Liverpool squad, but they can't let go Firminho and Couthinho. I think everyone else in that squad is replaceable, but those two 'inhos are a crucial part of the team. And if they won't sign a new keeper they might be in big trouble. After all it is going to be a difficult season next year, and I don't think Liverpool is going to handle it well. I believe that the same old thing is going to happen again. They will be unbeaten against top four all season, but they going to give away a Champions league place by loosing to Crystal Palace at Anfield.
6. Everton (7th)
Everton played extraordinary football last season. They did really well and they will keep going all the way through next season. It will be very exciting for them, spending most of the year above their biggest rivals from across the river, but the things will turn to be sour for them. Finishing behind Liverpool after a couple of lost important games. All of that only if Ross Barkley and Lukaku will stay at Goodison next season.
7. Newcastle (5th)
Geordies did really well in Championship and they deserve to be in the top flight. Newcastle are a big club and what can be better for them than being promoted as champions and seeing their rivals relegated from the bottom of the table. After having a non-pleasant experience from lower league, their finish in this season will pump them right up to the high finish in the Premier league. They've got many talented players who can help them to do really well. And with that fantastic support many great wins are on the way.
8. Spurs (6th)
Spurs hunted the champions again. Yet they failed again. Luckily for them they stayed second and what's better feeling than laughing at Arsenal for not making it into Champions league. They gave farewell to White Hart lane, which wasn't a good idea in my opinion. Just look at West Ham. They played some poor football at Olympic stadium. The killer for Tottenham will be Wembley. They never did well at this ground and I don't think they are about to change it. After quite successful season some of the key players might even leave the club which won't help them to keep up the good work. I see their next season as a big disappointment for them.
9. Southampton (11th)
Beach
boys are doing better and better each season. There is always something
missing to be among the elite of the league. With the budget they play
with it's truly remarkable to see them doing so well. Next season will
be another one full of positive surprises. But I'm afraid they will only
go downhill from there. I'm just gonna throw in another predictions that it's likely they will change a manager during the season, which will be a right decision, but it will be a bit too late to do anything significant to the league table.
10. Brighton (14th)
Another one of those small teams which everyone likes to see them do well. And I think they will. I am not really sure about this one, as they might finish in lower places, but why not? Just look at Leicester, Burnley or Bournemouth. Is Brighton going to be another one of those? They almost won the league last season and to win Championship is a tough competition bearing in mind that you have 4 more teams to compete with, therefore 8 more games. That is something, that is not easy, but they managed to do very well, so I think they will keep on going.
11. West Brom (13th)
West Brom games have always been 50-50. Weather they play Liverpool or Swansea. They just have the capability to surprise, but to disappoint at the same time. Tony Pulis is doing a great work, but as I said it's so-so and that's why I'm going with middle table finish with West Brom.
12. West Ham (9th)
It was very hard for hammers this season. Having some great players and yet still not get the results as they used to is not something you see very often. But you see it. Olympic stadium was a big blow for them. I could never see them do well on this ground. It is not Upton park. And you can see that not only on the look of the ground, but in the way of play as well. One season was maybe not enough and they are gonna suffer more. It will take some time, to make Olympic stadium their home.
13. Bournemouth (10th)
It is obvious what is the reason Bournemouth are still in the Premier league. There is only one name. Eddie Howe. For me he is one of the best managers of the season. If you'd put in charge anyone else, they would be fighting relegation for sure. Eddie is making Bournemouth a decent club, and he will do for a long time. I can't see them having any big worries about getting relegated next season, although they will need to fight, but it won't be that hard.
14. Leicester (16th)
The famous Leicester. A big champions with a small club. Those days are gone. Ranieri is gone. Which I will never understand, but it happened for whatever reason. Foxes started to write a new story. Literally, when Shakespeare took over. It was a nice read at first, but then it got a bit boring. Vardy and Mahrez were not available despite being on the pitch, which is going to change next season. If you look at Leicester history they have every other season successful. They change every season and having last season not so great, in the next one they are going to break this streak. Leicester glory days are over. They will remain safe in the top league, but with nothing interesting to watch. Maybe season after that.
15. Stoke (17th)
Stoke are one of those clubs who are not on top of your watch list. Next season they will have to step up from the relegation zone, where they will find themselves for a short time. Nothing serious though, they will stay high and dry long before the end of the season.
16. Swansea (12th)
After a nightmare, stressful finish of last season, Swans are going to learn a lesson. The team in white are going to be a tough place to visit and will be playing some decent football, however, things will change. They will drop. Not too low, but close enough to give them some worry lines on their faces. The end of the next season is not going to be an easy walk through once again. But they will manage to stay up.
17. Burnley (18th)
Sean Dyche is another one of those who can surprise us. However I do not believe Burnley is a tem for Premier league. Yeah, it's nice to see them play with the biggest clubs in the country, but I think it's just a matter of time, when they will be sent back to Championship again. Having said that I can see them saving themselves on the very last day of the season having their arses burnt by the flames of Championship.
18. Crystal Palace (15th)
Palace is a club where you just don't know what to expect. Last season was played with only Zaha and Benteke. I believe they will do well until January, when either one of them is going to use a transfer window and we will see Crystal Palace slip all the way down to relegation place. As I mentioned above, it will be decided in the last game, where they will not be able to gain urgent, important points, that would keep them in the league.
19. Reading (20th)
I am going to go with Reading over Huddersfield. I saw the game at Hillsborough and Huddersfield to me was not the team for the PL. Reading are going to have that extra bit of luck and will be celebrating a nice win at Wembley (maybe after extra time). That's my prediction number one for them. The other one is, that they will go where they came from. Next season will be a struggle for them and they will only wish that the season would be over.
20. Watford (19th)
Sacking a manager just for not speaking English seems a bit harsh for me (just look at Pochetino. remember his first days at Southampton?), however I do think it is a right decision. What I don't think is a right decision is a choice of a next manager. I don't know who that will be, but I've just got this gut feeling, that it is not going to end well. Watford will suffer a painful season and Mazzurri will only look and laugh at them.
Here are some additional predictions:
FA CUP: Man City - I see an easy draw for City. Although challenging for PL title and having priorities elsewhere, they will manage to get all the way through to final and maybe compensate for the standing in the league.
EFL CUP: Newcastle - After spending a year in not so prestigious Championship Newcastle will surprise us with not only league performance, but I reckon they will manage to get their hands on this piece of silverware.
COMMUNITY SHIELD: Chelsea - Easy 3-1 win against Arsenal. Can't see it any other way.
Championship promotion:
1.Fulham - After last season of great football, they will get a revenge for not getting promoted last season.
2. Hull - If they will manage to keep all the hard-working players, maybe sign some more, there will be an exciting season for them
Play offs - Sheffield United - Yeah, for this one I am going with my heart instead of my head, but who knows? Chris Wilder is making a fantastic job. Top six is not that unrealistic.
Regarding Europe, in Champions league an English team will get as far as semis. To be knocked out by a Spanish team (Real or Barca presumably). Who will that team be? I'm gonna go with Chelsea. I might be wrong though.
Europa league will be a bit obvious with a giant called Arsenal in there. Although I would like to see them loose in the final. Just to bring some nice memories from Liverpool game. Oh. It still makes me laugh. That's that then. I'm off to have a Coke.
XX
utorok 23. mája 2017
pondelok 15. mája 2017
The finale - A farewell to the Lane
Old Trafford, Etihad stadium, Turf moor, Upton park, Madejski stadium, The City ground, Meadow Lane, Bramall lane, Keepmoat Stadium, The Valley, Stamford bridge, Craven cottage (Wembley, Hilsborough and Emirates on work duties).
Those are the grounds I ever visited in England. But there are few missing on the list that I wish to see. Newcastle's St. James Park is certainly up there, but there is one stadium I always wanted to go to. And this was my last chance.
I always liked Spurs. Maybe it's due to the fact that they hate Arsenal, but they also play great football, have some decent players in the squad, very good managers and loud fans. Seeing them succeed lately by NEARLY winning the league (again) felt good. I'd much rather see them lifting a trophy than bloody Scousers or City. Anyway I wanted visit White Hart Lane ever since I saw the pictures of it, yet this was my last opportunity to do so. Funnily enough it was the big club from Manchester to challenge Tottenham to defend finishing their last ever season at the Lane unbeaten.
I spent all Friday on the phone sorting out tickets to an away end. It would cost me £200 what is quite a number. I was on the edge, bearing in mind that this was my last chance to go to the place, I would experience my first away United game, there would be playing two top teams and the demand for the tickets was unbelievable. Still it was a high price. The deciding point was my visit to Upton park in 2012. What a beautiful ground and they just abandoned it for that big shithole called Olympic stadium. Don't get me wrong, it is nice and that, but I don't think there was any need in getting a new ground. Especially that far from the old one. It has nothing to do with proper English historical way of stadiums were built. It has its own thing. To be so close to the players is like you are on the pitch yourself. There is nothing like it in the world and you have to experience it to admire those grounds. So to see one of those to be knocked down is quite hart-breaking. In the end the things turned out as they did and I was nervously waiting for the postman to knock on the door on Saturday morning. If he never delivered the tickets, I would only be able to collect them on Monday, so a huge relief hit me when I was finally tearing that envelope. The guy would only give me two tickets together, so I had to sort out the other one out. Although I didn't know anyone who would want to go. Not anyone in London anyway. But that wasn't my biggest worry as it would not significantly affect the price I paid.
The Sunday was finally here and I was getting ready for the showing off with masterclass in local Sunday league. It didn't go too well and I was only hoping I wouldn't have to watch anything similar this afternoon. I wanted to have a little time before the game so I legged it after half time. We were surprisingly only 1-0 down when I left. With the way we were playing and chances they missed it was a result that we could be more than happy with.
I was on my way home. When I got out of the bus I popped in the local off-license to tool me up with some beer cans for the road. I opened a bottle of Pilsner as soon as I stepped into my flat. Had a shower and a little rest and off I went in my United shirt. I was a bit concerned walking around Spurs fans in Man Utd shirt, but I thought it shouldn't be such a big issue. When I changed at green park I noticed few Spurs fans around, but no one seemed to be bothered about what I was wearing. At my other change at seven sisters my heart started beating a bit faster. There were a couple of fans in white and I was just hoping to spot at least one similar brave man like me. When I got off at White Hart Lane station I felt like Eminem in a rap club. Everyone was still cool with me wandering around the streets in red. So I got to the ground. First thing that hit your eye is a massive round wall in process of building. The new ground was in early stages, but I could see the whole thing built and that image looked incredible. I was wondering why on earth would they get rid of such a beautiful place as White Hart Lane, but I could see something, new, something better, something remarkable was coming in Tottenham's way. I walked round the massive thing and there she was, I pictured it rather differently and more modern than it actually was. Anyway I was still trying to find my way through massive crowd of white, to the turnstiles for away fans, hoping to see some people in familiar shirts. There must have been hundreds of supporters, but I was definitely standing out with that shirt. When I got to South stand I finally noticed few away fans. I was still admiring the stadium from outside and I could see why it needed changing. Rusty and old. I went on to find some pub stuffed with reds, but after walking for few minutes I found only one with whites. I didn't want to go too far as you never know what might happen. I just sat down and opened my Guinness. I went back to the ground and walked past. Maybe I'll have better luck the other way. After I noticed the first one was for home fans I just gave up. I also read that it is hard to find that kind of pub. So I just went to the side road and opened my third beer of the day. I stood there as one guy came up to me asking me for a spare ticket. I obviously still had one, but I wasn't sure he was an United fan. After he showed me a membership card from last season I had no doubt and sold him the ticket. He then introduced me to his son and his son's girlfriend. They also needed a ticket to get in, but I couldn't help them anymore. I just stood there having a chat when a guy came up to me sayin' I was an idiot. He probably noticed what I was wearing. So I just smiled and congratulated him on putting pressure on Chelsea. I went to get a match programme. What would be a better memory than a programme? This is perhaps what a programme directors were thinking too, because they put the price on it of £10. Ten fucking pounds! Cheeky greedy sods. So I headed empty-handed inside. I was hoping there will be a couple of lads already half-wasted singing and drinking, as I saw in Wembley. To my disappointment there were just few people drinking quietly. So I just ordered a pint and started looking around the walls with all the names that ever played at WHL. I found myself stunned in surprise when I saw Slovan Bratislava in there. It made me laugh even more as it was next to Manchester United. So I went to my seat to see what my view is going to be. As I walked out I was amazed. The stadium is great. I was thanking myself for deciding to go. After few moments a went for another beer and pie. After that I walked to my seat again, but only now it was just few minutes till kick-off and the stands were packed. Everyone started waving their flags as the players came out of the tunnel what created a fantastic atmosphere.
Soon the game kicked off along with perhaps the loudest chanting I have ever heard. It was unbelievable. I was very glad to watch Premier league live again. My excitement didn't last very long, when Wanyama headed the ball past De Gea. It wasn't very good performance from the lads, but managed to keep it only one goal difference. My throat had enough after a couple of songs I screamed, but I still kept going. I just couldn't stop. What annoyed me though was 'Follow, follow' chant. Not that it's any bad or anything, but they were singing it way too often. They don't have much to sing about this season, but I was getting sick of the chant.
After halftime and a beer with Costa (I swear to God it was him, although he claimed that he is only a lookalike) I went to slightly different spot to watch the game from. Only when I turned round to start watching, Man U conceded second. Harry Kane, the king of Lane. There was a practically no chance of turning this game round with the team that was on the pitch, but the belief was still there. Anyway, it was painful to watch, but with every passing minute I tried to sink in every inch and every detail of White Hart Lane to my memory. Wayne brought my hopes back after netting one back to make it 2-1. After that United were trying, but not enough. Little raindrops landed on the fourth referee's board as he was showing the amount of stoppage time. Everyone was waving their flags again and the scenes were thrilling. I wished for only one more goal so we have something to cheer about, but my wishes never came true.
The ref whistled for the last time and everyone ran onto the pitch. It was celebration like no other. Well, in fact it wasn't even a celebration. It was a goodbye.
All I can say is 'Well done Spurs'. What a season for them to finish unbeaten at their own ground. Only that title that would put the icing on the cake, but this was sweet enough. It was very emotional. The end of a huge exciting era.
It was a perfect farewell. And when I say perfect, everything went according to plan. Even a beautiful rainbow over the Lane came to say goodbye.
On my way home there was full train of fans. Both white and red. As we got off at Seven Sisters some brave guy in front started singing the old familiar Stockholm song. After a couple of fans around joined in I did not hesitate and had one last shout. Walking down the stairs to the tube station I was banging my hand to the rhythm of the chants so hard, it turned red immediately and hurt for next few minutes. Some lads in Spurs shirts started pointing at me to which I replied with 'You NEARLY won the league' The chant that carried on until I jumped on the tube. Journey home was long, but safe. And those memories will stay with me forever. Because only them will remain of that magical place.
What a day! Certainly worth it! To miss a visit to White Hart Lane would be a big mistake. Luckily enough I managed to avoid it. There is an exciting future waiting for north Londoners in the new modern bigger better ground. Hopefully I'll have a look at that one anytime soon. All I can say for now is: Good luck in the new home, Spurs!
Those are the grounds I ever visited in England. But there are few missing on the list that I wish to see. Newcastle's St. James Park is certainly up there, but there is one stadium I always wanted to go to. And this was my last chance.
I always liked Spurs. Maybe it's due to the fact that they hate Arsenal, but they also play great football, have some decent players in the squad, very good managers and loud fans. Seeing them succeed lately by NEARLY winning the league (again) felt good. I'd much rather see them lifting a trophy than bloody Scousers or City. Anyway I wanted visit White Hart Lane ever since I saw the pictures of it, yet this was my last opportunity to do so. Funnily enough it was the big club from Manchester to challenge Tottenham to defend finishing their last ever season at the Lane unbeaten.
I spent all Friday on the phone sorting out tickets to an away end. It would cost me £200 what is quite a number. I was on the edge, bearing in mind that this was my last chance to go to the place, I would experience my first away United game, there would be playing two top teams and the demand for the tickets was unbelievable. Still it was a high price. The deciding point was my visit to Upton park in 2012. What a beautiful ground and they just abandoned it for that big shithole called Olympic stadium. Don't get me wrong, it is nice and that, but I don't think there was any need in getting a new ground. Especially that far from the old one. It has nothing to do with proper English historical way of stadiums were built. It has its own thing. To be so close to the players is like you are on the pitch yourself. There is nothing like it in the world and you have to experience it to admire those grounds. So to see one of those to be knocked down is quite hart-breaking. In the end the things turned out as they did and I was nervously waiting for the postman to knock on the door on Saturday morning. If he never delivered the tickets, I would only be able to collect them on Monday, so a huge relief hit me when I was finally tearing that envelope. The guy would only give me two tickets together, so I had to sort out the other one out. Although I didn't know anyone who would want to go. Not anyone in London anyway. But that wasn't my biggest worry as it would not significantly affect the price I paid.
The Sunday was finally here and I was getting ready for the showing off with masterclass in local Sunday league. It didn't go too well and I was only hoping I wouldn't have to watch anything similar this afternoon. I wanted to have a little time before the game so I legged it after half time. We were surprisingly only 1-0 down when I left. With the way we were playing and chances they missed it was a result that we could be more than happy with.
I was on my way home. When I got out of the bus I popped in the local off-license to tool me up with some beer cans for the road. I opened a bottle of Pilsner as soon as I stepped into my flat. Had a shower and a little rest and off I went in my United shirt. I was a bit concerned walking around Spurs fans in Man Utd shirt, but I thought it shouldn't be such a big issue. When I changed at green park I noticed few Spurs fans around, but no one seemed to be bothered about what I was wearing. At my other change at seven sisters my heart started beating a bit faster. There were a couple of fans in white and I was just hoping to spot at least one similar brave man like me. When I got off at White Hart Lane station I felt like Eminem in a rap club. Everyone was still cool with me wandering around the streets in red. So I got to the ground. First thing that hit your eye is a massive round wall in process of building. The new ground was in early stages, but I could see the whole thing built and that image looked incredible. I was wondering why on earth would they get rid of such a beautiful place as White Hart Lane, but I could see something, new, something better, something remarkable was coming in Tottenham's way. I walked round the massive thing and there she was, I pictured it rather differently and more modern than it actually was. Anyway I was still trying to find my way through massive crowd of white, to the turnstiles for away fans, hoping to see some people in familiar shirts. There must have been hundreds of supporters, but I was definitely standing out with that shirt. When I got to South stand I finally noticed few away fans. I was still admiring the stadium from outside and I could see why it needed changing. Rusty and old. I went on to find some pub stuffed with reds, but after walking for few minutes I found only one with whites. I didn't want to go too far as you never know what might happen. I just sat down and opened my Guinness. I went back to the ground and walked past. Maybe I'll have better luck the other way. After I noticed the first one was for home fans I just gave up. I also read that it is hard to find that kind of pub. So I just went to the side road and opened my third beer of the day. I stood there as one guy came up to me asking me for a spare ticket. I obviously still had one, but I wasn't sure he was an United fan. After he showed me a membership card from last season I had no doubt and sold him the ticket. He then introduced me to his son and his son's girlfriend. They also needed a ticket to get in, but I couldn't help them anymore. I just stood there having a chat when a guy came up to me sayin' I was an idiot. He probably noticed what I was wearing. So I just smiled and congratulated him on putting pressure on Chelsea. I went to get a match programme. What would be a better memory than a programme? This is perhaps what a programme directors were thinking too, because they put the price on it of £10. Ten fucking pounds! Cheeky greedy sods. So I headed empty-handed inside. I was hoping there will be a couple of lads already half-wasted singing and drinking, as I saw in Wembley. To my disappointment there were just few people drinking quietly. So I just ordered a pint and started looking around the walls with all the names that ever played at WHL. I found myself stunned in surprise when I saw Slovan Bratislava in there. It made me laugh even more as it was next to Manchester United. So I went to my seat to see what my view is going to be. As I walked out I was amazed. The stadium is great. I was thanking myself for deciding to go. After few moments a went for another beer and pie. After that I walked to my seat again, but only now it was just few minutes till kick-off and the stands were packed. Everyone started waving their flags as the players came out of the tunnel what created a fantastic atmosphere.
Soon the game kicked off along with perhaps the loudest chanting I have ever heard. It was unbelievable. I was very glad to watch Premier league live again. My excitement didn't last very long, when Wanyama headed the ball past De Gea. It wasn't very good performance from the lads, but managed to keep it only one goal difference. My throat had enough after a couple of songs I screamed, but I still kept going. I just couldn't stop. What annoyed me though was 'Follow, follow' chant. Not that it's any bad or anything, but they were singing it way too often. They don't have much to sing about this season, but I was getting sick of the chant.
After halftime and a beer with Costa (I swear to God it was him, although he claimed that he is only a lookalike) I went to slightly different spot to watch the game from. Only when I turned round to start watching, Man U conceded second. Harry Kane, the king of Lane. There was a practically no chance of turning this game round with the team that was on the pitch, but the belief was still there. Anyway, it was painful to watch, but with every passing minute I tried to sink in every inch and every detail of White Hart Lane to my memory. Wayne brought my hopes back after netting one back to make it 2-1. After that United were trying, but not enough. Little raindrops landed on the fourth referee's board as he was showing the amount of stoppage time. Everyone was waving their flags again and the scenes were thrilling. I wished for only one more goal so we have something to cheer about, but my wishes never came true.
The ref whistled for the last time and everyone ran onto the pitch. It was celebration like no other. Well, in fact it wasn't even a celebration. It was a goodbye.
All I can say is 'Well done Spurs'. What a season for them to finish unbeaten at their own ground. Only that title that would put the icing on the cake, but this was sweet enough. It was very emotional. The end of a huge exciting era.
It was a perfect farewell. And when I say perfect, everything went according to plan. Even a beautiful rainbow over the Lane came to say goodbye.On my way home there was full train of fans. Both white and red. As we got off at Seven Sisters some brave guy in front started singing the old familiar Stockholm song. After a couple of fans around joined in I did not hesitate and had one last shout. Walking down the stairs to the tube station I was banging my hand to the rhythm of the chants so hard, it turned red immediately and hurt for next few minutes. Some lads in Spurs shirts started pointing at me to which I replied with 'You NEARLY won the league' The chant that carried on until I jumped on the tube. Journey home was long, but safe. And those memories will stay with me forever. Because only them will remain of that magical place.
What a day! Certainly worth it! To miss a visit to White Hart Lane would be a big mistake. Luckily enough I managed to avoid it. There is an exciting future waiting for north Londoners in the new modern bigger better ground. Hopefully I'll have a look at that one anytime soon. All I can say for now is: Good luck in the new home, Spurs!
utorok 2. mája 2017
DERBY DAYS
It's been a while since I last posted a blog. In fact I don't even do it anymore apart from Pohoda festival. But the events in recent days were so out of this world, that I just have to scribble down my memories just so I can read it back and remember all the great things about last weekend.
It started on Saturday in this little shitty office. Couple of hours of boring work went through slowly. I was on my own so basically I spent most of my worktime watching the old-firm derby. And what a sensational result for Celtic it was. It made me think that I have never really been to any derby game. I always get the buzz when I'm going to watch Man U - Liverpool on a telly. United - City is the first game I look for when the fixture list is released. I take derbies very seriously and to win such a game is three times as good. Your team wins, your rivals loose and it's just fucking great to beat those fuckers from next door. On the other hand the loss is as much painful. But that's why they invented a word 'revenge'. I just can't stress this enough how important derby matches are for me and yet I haven't been to any. Well, this was about to change.
FULHAM-BRENTFORD
After I finished work I nipped out half an hour early (so I could make the match and I did not take any break so no harm done, right?). I was feeling a bit ill past few days so I just went to local Costa to buy a fruit tea. I did not feel very tough walking through Bishop's park with a Costa cup in my hand. I noticed there were a lot more people around than there were at Ipswich game a couple of weeks ago. I got to Craven cottage and collected my ticket. I saw few peoples selling match programmes for £3.50 which I thought is a fair price, but decided not to buy one. I didn't want the hassle of carrying it around. So I just went inside the ground. There was few minutes till kick-off so I went to my seat. It was a great view behind the goal on a packed stadium. When few hundreds of Brentford fans started singing, I realized I was sitting just about four seats away from them. Obviously I supported Fulham as I had a bet on. Anyway the sun was up and high and everything was ready for the game. The players walked out of the tunnel and a massive roar was produced by the fans. I just could not wait when the game actually started. Brentford fans were singing their lungs out and the atmosphere was astonishing. Fulham were challenging to qualify for play-offs and they had to get some result today if they didn't want to rely on Leeds slipping. They played some decent football, but still not enough to produce a goal. However it took them only 8 minutes to net one to send Fulham 1-0 ahead. I was quite relieved when everyone around me jumped in joy. It felt strange looking at those disappointed faces just few feet away. I joined in the well famous chant 'Who are ya?' to which they responded immediately with '..and it's suuupeer Brentfort. Suuupeeer Brentfort FC! We're by far the greatest team, that the world has ever seen'. Greatest team or not theu were 1-0 down. The atmosphere was electric. Fulham support was not at its best what was very well acknowledged by visiting fans. Fulham were dominating the game, but Brentford were dominating the support. Suddenly, out of the blue, Fulham forward found himself dribbling to the Brentford keeper on his own. He slowed down just before the finish amd went on to pass the ball past the goalkeeper. I could not believe my own eyes when the ball went waaaay over the bar. Brentford fans were cheering as if they just scored. It was still one nil to Fulham, so no big deal. However it became a big deal when Brentford put the ball in the net on the other side of the pitch. Only then I realized were I was sat. Half of the stand on my left jumped up screaming and another quarter of a stand on my right did the very same thing. I was trapped between two sets of away fans. Some individuals were clapping their hands even in the part of the stand were most of the people did not appreciate the goal as much. I just found it ridiculous. Almost no security between the two. If things were to kick off we would have no chance. At least I wasn't alone supporting Fulham in that area (although it was supposed to be for neutral fans). It was just before the half time so I decided to avoid the big queue and grab something to eat. But before I do that I wanted a programme. I felt a huge regret that I didn't buy one when I had a chance and now I would pay double for one. It was truly memorable match and I wanted a memory. Obviously there were no more programmes at half-time. So I just queued up for my burger. It was then when I heard a roar from the crowd. I had no clue what happened, but as it wasn't much of a celebration it was probably just a missed chance. But when after just few seconds Brentford fans went mental I knew it must have been a goal. I could only presume as the telly was out of my sight. So there I was standing and I HEARD the goal. After I enjoyed my burger I got back and the second half started. It was to my surprise when I noticed the scoreboard was showing a score 1-1. I was a bit confused, but perhaps the goal was ruled out or something. Anyway it's one each as it stands and the second half was well under way. It wasn't bad, but not much mentionable happened. The sound of the final whistle sealed it all and that was it. Even though I lost my bet a left the ground with a great feeling. On my way home a checked the results. Leeds drew as well to Norwich which means they'll need to win by 13 goals and Fulham would have to loose in the final game to qualify for the play-offs. Ooooh how I fucking HATE Leeds. SCUM! I checked the Fulham result too and then I noticed that the goal I 'heard' was actually a missed penalty. Now it all makes sense. Fulham just blew their chance of winning the game twice (inclucding the miss in first half). When I got home I just watched Match of the day and went to bed early. There was bigger game on the agenda on Sunday. And I had to wake up at 5am to go and experience one of the best days of my life.
SHEFFIELD UNITED-CHESTERFIELD
Bramall lane is just 10 miles from Chesterfield ground, but they write a completely different story. While one is looking to break all the records and is going to lift the trophy today, the blue team is at the very bottom of the league fighting maybe for dignity as they are relegated for a long time now.
The alarm clock went off at 5 and I was up on my feet in a moment. I was a bit afraid that I am going to lay in my bed all morning and I'm gonna miss my bus, but the excitement woke me right up. I got an early bus (just in case). It was half an hour early. You can never be too careful when you have this important game you're going to. So I went to Westminister and that bloody Sunday morning there was no District line to Victoria. So I had no other choice. I had to walk. That's one of the reasons why I go early. I finally got to Victoria at about 10 past 6. Still plenty of time to my departure. That fucking illness was still bothering me so I bought myself a tea latte. Yes those two words together in one drink. I'll tell you what, it was strange. It was tasty and disgusting at the same time. Still it was tea and I just got sick of those earl greys and English breakfasts. So I was sipping my latte while waiting for my bus. The clock hit 7 and there I was sitting in a bus. I was as excited as never. Honestly, I can't remember being this excited. Ever. It was like for the kid to go to Disneyland for the first time with Santa Claus and Mickey Mouse. On the bus I just watched a film, The Hooligan Factory, just to get into football mood. It was quite funny really. The film I mean. The latte I drank earlier find all its way through my body to my bladder. So I went to the back of the bus. The fucking door on the toilet just won't open. I was struggling what saw a lad sat by the door and helped me open the fucker. After I thanked him I got the most sweet response. 'Anything for the bladesman.' I felt good. Somehow I survived a long three hour drive and I started noticing beautiful hills and bit of civilization. It didn't take me long to know that we were in Sheffield. I just could not believe what I was seeing. After almost two and half years I was finally back. And it did not changed a bit. The very same just as I know it. Just as I like it. I'm back home. Sweet Sheffield. I got off the bus and I almost ran to the city centre. I was like a released dog. I was so happy and excited to be back. I briefly walked through the city and headed straight to the Bramall lane. I didn't have to check the way once. I could walk there blindfolded. God, it's been so long, but the greatness of the city is still the same. I was still some distance from the ground when I saw two guys selling programmes. I was surprised, but they looked official and also I new how the programme was gonna look like, so I bought myself one immediately (I wouldn't hesitate for a second after yesterday). I walked on and finally got to the home of football. There I was. I headed straight to the store to check a couple of new things out. I grabbed two balloons on the way and I was shocked when I got there. I only found a massive queue just to ENTER the store. That is quite interest in Champions. So I queued up and waited. There was almost an hour until kick-off. It didn't take that long when I got into the store, so I had a look around. If I had my own budget I would probably bought everything. After I browsed every single item I decided to hang on to 'Champions' scarf. The queue for the till was all around the shop. I never seen this big queue before. And I usually get pissed if there is only one old tart taking ages before me, but now, I was more than happy to stand there and wait. Sheffield just turns your life around. After I left with the scarf around my neck I headed straight to the stadium. I was thinking of grabbing a little lunch as I had only two bananas that day, but I decided to get one in the ground. As I walked through the turnstiles I headed straight for the bar. Having a sign with a picture of huge burger on it and a menu next to the bar with all food possible you would imagine that you are waiting to get served a nice chunk of edibles. Saying 'No pints, we serve bottled Carling only' you would think that you can do without a proper pint. But when I actually said that I want a burger they just told me that there was no food served at this window. So I left with a bottle, really confused and a bit angry. I just thought screw it, I will manage to stay off any food until after the game. There was no chance I would go and get something at half time. I wouldn't miss a second from my beloved club. Especially when you don't see them play very often. So i just stood there drinking my Carling. Having a plastic bottle is actually an incredible idea. You don't spill a drop while moving around, it's handy and easy to hold. It's the best thing I've seen in a long time. I just hope it'll catch on very quickly and it will spread all over the country and abroad. I started to have second thoughts. If I'm not gonna have a bite now, I will be starving for the whole game and I won't be able to enjoy it as much. There is still time so I should be fine. So I got myself a burger and stood by the wall to destroy it. Having a bottle of Carlsberg in my hand and a burger in another I had to hold on to my programme with only two fingers. Some bloke noticed that and walked to me. He offered me a tenner for the programme (which is double the price) as he can no longer get one once he's inside. I just shook my head and told him straight NO. He obviously understood that the thing I'm holding is a treasure. It's a life-lasting memory. So I finished my burger and went to my seat. I was sat there in the second row on the Kop next to a mad woman who screamed at every player and also her 'OUT! OUT! OUT!' was presumably addressed to the defenders to clear the ball from the box. By my right hand was a bloke with a nice sense of humor. So it was all set for the players to come out. The stands all around the lane were packed. An event that was sold out (twice). I was looking at something I saw only on YouTube. I have never seen this many people at the lane. It was special. Chesterfield players lined up to welcome the champions and they walked out full of pride. And deservedly so. A bunch of flame-works went off as they walked onto the pitch. It was magical. I got quite upset when players switched sides, meaning the second half will be played towards the other end. Well I wasn't upset for very long as the song started. Oh YES! That song. 'You fill up my seeenseees...' I sang as loud as I could. '...greasy chip buttyyyy. My Sheffield Uniiiteeed, come thrill me again! Nah na na na na OOOUH!' It felt great. It felt like one big family. I felt really proud to sing the champions' anthem. Soon the match started and I just sat back and enjoyed the moment. Seeing the players running around was like my dream. I watched every movement of Billy Sharp, every pass of Mark Duffy and every corner of John Fleck. I didn't mind if all this was just one big dream. I just never wanted to wake up. After a little chaos in Chesterfield box Kieron Freeman was the one who put the ball past the goalkeeper. I jumped high with joy. Everything was going well. I could not be more happy. Fans on the very top corner of the Kop celebrated the goal with a smoke-bomb and a flare. It felt really good. We are Champions! After just few minutes The Blades conceded a penalty and my joy was gone. All my hopes were now on Simon Moore, who guessed the direction of the ball wrong. Ch'field were back in the game. All the corners taken on the right hand side for Sheffield were like the biggest TV in the world right in front of me. It was just real. I could see John Fleck so close, that I couldn't believe it. When we were about to take a corner the game was interrupted for a little while because of some injury. Then John Fleck just stood there waiting to take the corner. Someone from the crowd shouted 'John Fleck, will you marry me?' what made us all laugh. He got no response though. The half time came and I went through the pages of my programme. 15 minutes were gone and the players were back on the pitch. Greasy chip butty started the second half again followed by my loud shout 'COME ON SHEFFIELD!'. I am pretty sure some of the players heard it. I felt like I could do something about the game. Even though it's only just one silly shout. But it feels great. You can't even compare it to when you watch a match on a TV in a pub. The game was well under way and it didn't take long until Billy scored his 30th goal of the season. 30TH!!! What a legend! Blades are back on top with 2-1 lead. I'm over the moon. I simply cannot believe what I'm seeing. Unfortunately Sheffield's performance wasn't at its best and you could see that mainly in their defense. Chesterfield took the advantage of it and scored second to equalize. I was gutted. It was only about 20 minutes to go and I wanted 100 points more than anything. Then something happened on the halfway line as Billy went on to kick-off the ball to start the play again. I couldn't quite see what happened as I was way too far, but a huge cheer meant the red card for Chesterfield player. So there we go again. Champions playing against 10-men bottom side. This shouldn't be so hard. But it was. Sheffield were struggling with almost everything. It was a nightmare to watch. I just kept asking myself why is that happening. We should get 4-0, 5-0 result today and not being level with 10 minutes to go. I just hoped for one more goal. Just one more. Daniel Lafferty made my wish come true. I threw my fists in the air and could not believe my luck. We were 3-2 up and the game was almost finished. But it wasn't over. United did everything to keep the ball out of the box. Although they sometimes failed, Chesterfield just could not find a way through. The ref whistled for the last time in the day and that was it. We were 100 point Champions. There is no better feeling than that, is it?
To my surprise (and disappointment) the fans stayed in their seats and did not ran onto the pitch. I was hoping to meet with the players. To touch them. To touch my heroes. That didn't happen. Players just walked back to the tunnel and waited for the stage to be built. Which took ages really. It was a bit boring but being a Champions and waiting just to lift the trophy I can't really complain, can I? After everything was set up the announcer started calling up all the people involved with the club all the way to the players. He started naming them one by one. Everyone but one. Before him he called on stage the man who stood behind all this success. The one of our own. CHRIS WILDER ladies and gentlemen. And now, the captain, BILYYY SHAAAARP!!!! The player of the year! He came to lift a trophy. As he did my heart skipped a heartbeat. I had a tear in the corner of my eye. It was just beautiful. The champagne was flying everywhere. The players went slowly around the ground showing that piece of silverware to the fans. They stopped at every corner and took loads of pics with their families and the trophy. Everyone wanted to be a part of it. When they came round to where I was standing I was on the goal line. I wished that somebody would ran off to them. I would definitely do the same in a second. On the other hand they had with them small kids running about, so it wouldn't be the greatest idea. But I was happy just to get near them. When they finished all round back to the dugouts I knew they were never coming back. I decided to go. As I was passing the south stand I noticed that you can easily sneak there. So I went all the way to the tunnel and found my way just outside the home bench. There were a couple of stewards holding us back. I went as close to the tunnel as I could just to see the players and maybe even ask for a shirt. Some of them started going to the dressing rooms and I realized they are not giving away their shirts. I managed to get a handshake from John Fleck and that was enough for me. There was a really nice gesture by one of the players (I can't really remember who he was) when he gave a pair of his boots away to a child. I stood in the ground for couple more minutes. I just didn't want to leave. Well, it's been an awful long time since I last went to the lane and god knows how long it's going to be when I step my foot here again. I just wanted to enjoy every second of it. So they had to almost escort me out. But I finally got out. After more than an hour after the game finished. So I just took a piss in a toilet and walked out. Although it wasn't finished for me. I went round to the players' entrance. I wanted more. I just wanted to meet them. They were working so hard all season and I just needed to see them. So I was hanging around, but no one was coming out. I gave it up. They will probably be partying all night in that dressing room. I turned and walked round the Chesterfield bus. And who didn't I see there? Chriss Hussey in his kit giving autographs. How the hell did I miss him? Never mind, he is here and he is signing my programme. Oh god, what a moment! He literally gave an autograph to everyone who asked for it. Not only that, one little boy asked for his boot (that he was holding). Do you think he hesitated? Oh yes he did. He was confused the boy wanted only one boot. He gave him both. And signed them. What a legend! I used a moment and took a selfie with him before he went to his Mercedes. Some feeling that. I only turned round and saw another player surrounded by a bunch of people. When I came closer I saw who he was. It's only Marc McNulty! The problem was I did not have a marker pen. I saw this blonde lass holding a marker next to me so I asked her if she would be so kind to borrow it to me. I did not know what I was getting into. Not only she borrowed it me, but she told me to hang around her and her boyfriend just to make sure to get autographs of all the players. What? I could not believe it. It was amazing. Another one came out along with Stefan Scougall. Onother two signed. After a while (from another door this time) Leon Clarke with Ebanks-Landell. I had to take a selfie with Leon. It was unbelievable. They just kept coming. I had only one big worry. My bus was leaving 5 o'clock. If I wanted to make it, I will need to leave soon. And I'm more than sure I am going to miss some players. And the most important ones. I'm going to miss the gaffer as well. This is hell. I am gutted. Why the hell have I booked this early bus? Dammit! Only when two of the nicest people offered me to sign all the players and send the programme to me in a post. Not only that, they offered me a beer and I was almost in tears. It felt like they were my family. Well, they sort of are. They are bladesmen! These things just don't happen at Ed Sheeran concert. This is magical. It's why supporting your club all your life is so special. Anyway it was almost time to leave. John Fleck came out just before I had to go, so I took one last selfie and I was on my way, leaving my precious programme with them. I was leaving with a huge smile and an amazing feeling. It was fantastic. I was so excited I had to run to the bus station. When I got there I saw a lad in United shirt. Guess where he was heading to. Oh yes, all the way to London. I got on a bus a it took me out of the place I love. It took me out of heaven back to filthy, cruel, shite, fucking reality called London. When I got out at Victoria I saw about three blokes in United shirts getting off. Bloody hell. The blades rule the world! As soon as I got home I put my scarf across my room window. Now all I could see, wherever I was standing in the room, was 'CHAMPIONS'! What a beauty. (It lasted only until my girlfriend got back home. it took her two seconds to take it down)
In the past month I found four new friends (fuck all before that), All of them Sheffield United fans. And fucking awesome people. Is it a coincidence? Maybe. But I like to think not. Footbal unites the people. You share the same joy of winning and the same pain with a loss. Sheffield United is a huge part of my life, so if you are a supporter, then we have a huge part of my life in common. I think we will get on very easily then.
Thanks L&L.
Those were my first two derby games. Although it didn't have that real spark. There wasn't that true hatred. There wasn't that feeling, that you would give everything in your entire life, just to destroy them. To humiliate them. To kill them, stab them in the back and turn the knife million of times.
I hope my time for that will come next year. Sheffield Wednesday, WE'RE COMING FOR YOU!
UP THE BLADES
#COYRAWW
It started on Saturday in this little shitty office. Couple of hours of boring work went through slowly. I was on my own so basically I spent most of my worktime watching the old-firm derby. And what a sensational result for Celtic it was. It made me think that I have never really been to any derby game. I always get the buzz when I'm going to watch Man U - Liverpool on a telly. United - City is the first game I look for when the fixture list is released. I take derbies very seriously and to win such a game is three times as good. Your team wins, your rivals loose and it's just fucking great to beat those fuckers from next door. On the other hand the loss is as much painful. But that's why they invented a word 'revenge'. I just can't stress this enough how important derby matches are for me and yet I haven't been to any. Well, this was about to change.
FULHAM-BRENTFORD
After I finished work I nipped out half an hour early (so I could make the match and I did not take any break so no harm done, right?). I was feeling a bit ill past few days so I just went to local Costa to buy a fruit tea. I did not feel very tough walking through Bishop's park with a Costa cup in my hand. I noticed there were a lot more people around than there were at Ipswich game a couple of weeks ago. I got to Craven cottage and collected my ticket. I saw few peoples selling match programmes for £3.50 which I thought is a fair price, but decided not to buy one. I didn't want the hassle of carrying it around. So I just went inside the ground. There was few minutes till kick-off so I went to my seat. It was a great view behind the goal on a packed stadium. When few hundreds of Brentford fans started singing, I realized I was sitting just about four seats away from them. Obviously I supported Fulham as I had a bet on. Anyway the sun was up and high and everything was ready for the game. The players walked out of the tunnel and a massive roar was produced by the fans. I just could not wait when the game actually started. Brentford fans were singing their lungs out and the atmosphere was astonishing. Fulham were challenging to qualify for play-offs and they had to get some result today if they didn't want to rely on Leeds slipping. They played some decent football, but still not enough to produce a goal. However it took them only 8 minutes to net one to send Fulham 1-0 ahead. I was quite relieved when everyone around me jumped in joy. It felt strange looking at those disappointed faces just few feet away. I joined in the well famous chant 'Who are ya?' to which they responded immediately with '..and it's suuupeer Brentfort. Suuupeeer Brentfort FC! We're by far the greatest team, that the world has ever seen'. Greatest team or not theu were 1-0 down. The atmosphere was electric. Fulham support was not at its best what was very well acknowledged by visiting fans. Fulham were dominating the game, but Brentford were dominating the support. Suddenly, out of the blue, Fulham forward found himself dribbling to the Brentford keeper on his own. He slowed down just before the finish amd went on to pass the ball past the goalkeeper. I could not believe my own eyes when the ball went waaaay over the bar. Brentford fans were cheering as if they just scored. It was still one nil to Fulham, so no big deal. However it became a big deal when Brentford put the ball in the net on the other side of the pitch. Only then I realized were I was sat. Half of the stand on my left jumped up screaming and another quarter of a stand on my right did the very same thing. I was trapped between two sets of away fans. Some individuals were clapping their hands even in the part of the stand were most of the people did not appreciate the goal as much. I just found it ridiculous. Almost no security between the two. If things were to kick off we would have no chance. At least I wasn't alone supporting Fulham in that area (although it was supposed to be for neutral fans). It was just before the half time so I decided to avoid the big queue and grab something to eat. But before I do that I wanted a programme. I felt a huge regret that I didn't buy one when I had a chance and now I would pay double for one. It was truly memorable match and I wanted a memory. Obviously there were no more programmes at half-time. So I just queued up for my burger. It was then when I heard a roar from the crowd. I had no clue what happened, but as it wasn't much of a celebration it was probably just a missed chance. But when after just few seconds Brentford fans went mental I knew it must have been a goal. I could only presume as the telly was out of my sight. So there I was standing and I HEARD the goal. After I enjoyed my burger I got back and the second half started. It was to my surprise when I noticed the scoreboard was showing a score 1-1. I was a bit confused, but perhaps the goal was ruled out or something. Anyway it's one each as it stands and the second half was well under way. It wasn't bad, but not much mentionable happened. The sound of the final whistle sealed it all and that was it. Even though I lost my bet a left the ground with a great feeling. On my way home a checked the results. Leeds drew as well to Norwich which means they'll need to win by 13 goals and Fulham would have to loose in the final game to qualify for the play-offs. Ooooh how I fucking HATE Leeds. SCUM! I checked the Fulham result too and then I noticed that the goal I 'heard' was actually a missed penalty. Now it all makes sense. Fulham just blew their chance of winning the game twice (inclucding the miss in first half). When I got home I just watched Match of the day and went to bed early. There was bigger game on the agenda on Sunday. And I had to wake up at 5am to go and experience one of the best days of my life.
SHEFFIELD UNITED-CHESTERFIELD
Bramall lane is just 10 miles from Chesterfield ground, but they write a completely different story. While one is looking to break all the records and is going to lift the trophy today, the blue team is at the very bottom of the league fighting maybe for dignity as they are relegated for a long time now.
The alarm clock went off at 5 and I was up on my feet in a moment. I was a bit afraid that I am going to lay in my bed all morning and I'm gonna miss my bus, but the excitement woke me right up. I got an early bus (just in case). It was half an hour early. You can never be too careful when you have this important game you're going to. So I went to Westminister and that bloody Sunday morning there was no District line to Victoria. So I had no other choice. I had to walk. That's one of the reasons why I go early. I finally got to Victoria at about 10 past 6. Still plenty of time to my departure. That fucking illness was still bothering me so I bought myself a tea latte. Yes those two words together in one drink. I'll tell you what, it was strange. It was tasty and disgusting at the same time. Still it was tea and I just got sick of those earl greys and English breakfasts. So I was sipping my latte while waiting for my bus. The clock hit 7 and there I was sitting in a bus. I was as excited as never. Honestly, I can't remember being this excited. Ever. It was like for the kid to go to Disneyland for the first time with Santa Claus and Mickey Mouse. On the bus I just watched a film, The Hooligan Factory, just to get into football mood. It was quite funny really. The film I mean. The latte I drank earlier find all its way through my body to my bladder. So I went to the back of the bus. The fucking door on the toilet just won't open. I was struggling what saw a lad sat by the door and helped me open the fucker. After I thanked him I got the most sweet response. 'Anything for the bladesman.' I felt good. Somehow I survived a long three hour drive and I started noticing beautiful hills and bit of civilization. It didn't take me long to know that we were in Sheffield. I just could not believe what I was seeing. After almost two and half years I was finally back. And it did not changed a bit. The very same just as I know it. Just as I like it. I'm back home. Sweet Sheffield. I got off the bus and I almost ran to the city centre. I was like a released dog. I was so happy and excited to be back. I briefly walked through the city and headed straight to the Bramall lane. I didn't have to check the way once. I could walk there blindfolded. God, it's been so long, but the greatness of the city is still the same. I was still some distance from the ground when I saw two guys selling programmes. I was surprised, but they looked official and also I new how the programme was gonna look like, so I bought myself one immediately (I wouldn't hesitate for a second after yesterday). I walked on and finally got to the home of football. There I was. I headed straight to the store to check a couple of new things out. I grabbed two balloons on the way and I was shocked when I got there. I only found a massive queue just to ENTER the store. That is quite interest in Champions. So I queued up and waited. There was almost an hour until kick-off. It didn't take that long when I got into the store, so I had a look around. If I had my own budget I would probably bought everything. After I browsed every single item I decided to hang on to 'Champions' scarf. The queue for the till was all around the shop. I never seen this big queue before. And I usually get pissed if there is only one old tart taking ages before me, but now, I was more than happy to stand there and wait. Sheffield just turns your life around. After I left with the scarf around my neck I headed straight to the stadium. I was thinking of grabbing a little lunch as I had only two bananas that day, but I decided to get one in the ground. As I walked through the turnstiles I headed straight for the bar. Having a sign with a picture of huge burger on it and a menu next to the bar with all food possible you would imagine that you are waiting to get served a nice chunk of edibles. Saying 'No pints, we serve bottled Carling only' you would think that you can do without a proper pint. But when I actually said that I want a burger they just told me that there was no food served at this window. So I left with a bottle, really confused and a bit angry. I just thought screw it, I will manage to stay off any food until after the game. There was no chance I would go and get something at half time. I wouldn't miss a second from my beloved club. Especially when you don't see them play very often. So i just stood there drinking my Carling. Having a plastic bottle is actually an incredible idea. You don't spill a drop while moving around, it's handy and easy to hold. It's the best thing I've seen in a long time. I just hope it'll catch on very quickly and it will spread all over the country and abroad. I started to have second thoughts. If I'm not gonna have a bite now, I will be starving for the whole game and I won't be able to enjoy it as much. There is still time so I should be fine. So I got myself a burger and stood by the wall to destroy it. Having a bottle of Carlsberg in my hand and a burger in another I had to hold on to my programme with only two fingers. Some bloke noticed that and walked to me. He offered me a tenner for the programme (which is double the price) as he can no longer get one once he's inside. I just shook my head and told him straight NO. He obviously understood that the thing I'm holding is a treasure. It's a life-lasting memory. So I finished my burger and went to my seat. I was sat there in the second row on the Kop next to a mad woman who screamed at every player and also her 'OUT! OUT! OUT!' was presumably addressed to the defenders to clear the ball from the box. By my right hand was a bloke with a nice sense of humor. So it was all set for the players to come out. The stands all around the lane were packed. An event that was sold out (twice). I was looking at something I saw only on YouTube. I have never seen this many people at the lane. It was special. Chesterfield players lined up to welcome the champions and they walked out full of pride. And deservedly so. A bunch of flame-works went off as they walked onto the pitch. It was magical. I got quite upset when players switched sides, meaning the second half will be played towards the other end. Well I wasn't upset for very long as the song started. Oh YES! That song. 'You fill up my seeenseees...' I sang as loud as I could. '...greasy chip buttyyyy. My Sheffield Uniiiteeed, come thrill me again! Nah na na na na OOOUH!' It felt great. It felt like one big family. I felt really proud to sing the champions' anthem. Soon the match started and I just sat back and enjoyed the moment. Seeing the players running around was like my dream. I watched every movement of Billy Sharp, every pass of Mark Duffy and every corner of John Fleck. I didn't mind if all this was just one big dream. I just never wanted to wake up. After a little chaos in Chesterfield box Kieron Freeman was the one who put the ball past the goalkeeper. I jumped high with joy. Everything was going well. I could not be more happy. Fans on the very top corner of the Kop celebrated the goal with a smoke-bomb and a flare. It felt really good. We are Champions! After just few minutes The Blades conceded a penalty and my joy was gone. All my hopes were now on Simon Moore, who guessed the direction of the ball wrong. Ch'field were back in the game. All the corners taken on the right hand side for Sheffield were like the biggest TV in the world right in front of me. It was just real. I could see John Fleck so close, that I couldn't believe it. When we were about to take a corner the game was interrupted for a little while because of some injury. Then John Fleck just stood there waiting to take the corner. Someone from the crowd shouted 'John Fleck, will you marry me?' what made us all laugh. He got no response though. The half time came and I went through the pages of my programme. 15 minutes were gone and the players were back on the pitch. Greasy chip butty started the second half again followed by my loud shout 'COME ON SHEFFIELD!'. I am pretty sure some of the players heard it. I felt like I could do something about the game. Even though it's only just one silly shout. But it feels great. You can't even compare it to when you watch a match on a TV in a pub. The game was well under way and it didn't take long until Billy scored his 30th goal of the season. 30TH!!! What a legend! Blades are back on top with 2-1 lead. I'm over the moon. I simply cannot believe what I'm seeing. Unfortunately Sheffield's performance wasn't at its best and you could see that mainly in their defense. Chesterfield took the advantage of it and scored second to equalize. I was gutted. It was only about 20 minutes to go and I wanted 100 points more than anything. Then something happened on the halfway line as Billy went on to kick-off the ball to start the play again. I couldn't quite see what happened as I was way too far, but a huge cheer meant the red card for Chesterfield player. So there we go again. Champions playing against 10-men bottom side. This shouldn't be so hard. But it was. Sheffield were struggling with almost everything. It was a nightmare to watch. I just kept asking myself why is that happening. We should get 4-0, 5-0 result today and not being level with 10 minutes to go. I just hoped for one more goal. Just one more. Daniel Lafferty made my wish come true. I threw my fists in the air and could not believe my luck. We were 3-2 up and the game was almost finished. But it wasn't over. United did everything to keep the ball out of the box. Although they sometimes failed, Chesterfield just could not find a way through. The ref whistled for the last time in the day and that was it. We were 100 point Champions. There is no better feeling than that, is it?
To my surprise (and disappointment) the fans stayed in their seats and did not ran onto the pitch. I was hoping to meet with the players. To touch them. To touch my heroes. That didn't happen. Players just walked back to the tunnel and waited for the stage to be built. Which took ages really. It was a bit boring but being a Champions and waiting just to lift the trophy I can't really complain, can I? After everything was set up the announcer started calling up all the people involved with the club all the way to the players. He started naming them one by one. Everyone but one. Before him he called on stage the man who stood behind all this success. The one of our own. CHRIS WILDER ladies and gentlemen. And now, the captain, BILYYY SHAAAARP!!!! The player of the year! He came to lift a trophy. As he did my heart skipped a heartbeat. I had a tear in the corner of my eye. It was just beautiful. The champagne was flying everywhere. The players went slowly around the ground showing that piece of silverware to the fans. They stopped at every corner and took loads of pics with their families and the trophy. Everyone wanted to be a part of it. When they came round to where I was standing I was on the goal line. I wished that somebody would ran off to them. I would definitely do the same in a second. On the other hand they had with them small kids running about, so it wouldn't be the greatest idea. But I was happy just to get near them. When they finished all round back to the dugouts I knew they were never coming back. I decided to go. As I was passing the south stand I noticed that you can easily sneak there. So I went all the way to the tunnel and found my way just outside the home bench. There were a couple of stewards holding us back. I went as close to the tunnel as I could just to see the players and maybe even ask for a shirt. Some of them started going to the dressing rooms and I realized they are not giving away their shirts. I managed to get a handshake from John Fleck and that was enough for me. There was a really nice gesture by one of the players (I can't really remember who he was) when he gave a pair of his boots away to a child. I stood in the ground for couple more minutes. I just didn't want to leave. Well, it's been an awful long time since I last went to the lane and god knows how long it's going to be when I step my foot here again. I just wanted to enjoy every second of it. So they had to almost escort me out. But I finally got out. After more than an hour after the game finished. So I just took a piss in a toilet and walked out. Although it wasn't finished for me. I went round to the players' entrance. I wanted more. I just wanted to meet them. They were working so hard all season and I just needed to see them. So I was hanging around, but no one was coming out. I gave it up. They will probably be partying all night in that dressing room. I turned and walked round the Chesterfield bus. And who didn't I see there? Chriss Hussey in his kit giving autographs. How the hell did I miss him? Never mind, he is here and he is signing my programme. Oh god, what a moment! He literally gave an autograph to everyone who asked for it. Not only that, one little boy asked for his boot (that he was holding). Do you think he hesitated? Oh yes he did. He was confused the boy wanted only one boot. He gave him both. And signed them. What a legend! I used a moment and took a selfie with him before he went to his Mercedes. Some feeling that. I only turned round and saw another player surrounded by a bunch of people. When I came closer I saw who he was. It's only Marc McNulty! The problem was I did not have a marker pen. I saw this blonde lass holding a marker next to me so I asked her if she would be so kind to borrow it to me. I did not know what I was getting into. Not only she borrowed it me, but she told me to hang around her and her boyfriend just to make sure to get autographs of all the players. What? I could not believe it. It was amazing. Another one came out along with Stefan Scougall. Onother two signed. After a while (from another door this time) Leon Clarke with Ebanks-Landell. I had to take a selfie with Leon. It was unbelievable. They just kept coming. I had only one big worry. My bus was leaving 5 o'clock. If I wanted to make it, I will need to leave soon. And I'm more than sure I am going to miss some players. And the most important ones. I'm going to miss the gaffer as well. This is hell. I am gutted. Why the hell have I booked this early bus? Dammit! Only when two of the nicest people offered me to sign all the players and send the programme to me in a post. Not only that, they offered me a beer and I was almost in tears. It felt like they were my family. Well, they sort of are. They are bladesmen! These things just don't happen at Ed Sheeran concert. This is magical. It's why supporting your club all your life is so special. Anyway it was almost time to leave. John Fleck came out just before I had to go, so I took one last selfie and I was on my way, leaving my precious programme with them. I was leaving with a huge smile and an amazing feeling. It was fantastic. I was so excited I had to run to the bus station. When I got there I saw a lad in United shirt. Guess where he was heading to. Oh yes, all the way to London. I got on a bus a it took me out of the place I love. It took me out of heaven back to filthy, cruel, shite, fucking reality called London. When I got out at Victoria I saw about three blokes in United shirts getting off. Bloody hell. The blades rule the world! As soon as I got home I put my scarf across my room window. Now all I could see, wherever I was standing in the room, was 'CHAMPIONS'! What a beauty. (It lasted only until my girlfriend got back home. it took her two seconds to take it down)In the past month I found four new friends (fuck all before that), All of them Sheffield United fans. And fucking awesome people. Is it a coincidence? Maybe. But I like to think not. Footbal unites the people. You share the same joy of winning and the same pain with a loss. Sheffield United is a huge part of my life, so if you are a supporter, then we have a huge part of my life in common. I think we will get on very easily then.
Thanks L&L.
Those were my first two derby games. Although it didn't have that real spark. There wasn't that true hatred. There wasn't that feeling, that you would give everything in your entire life, just to destroy them. To humiliate them. To kill them, stab them in the back and turn the knife million of times.
I hope my time for that will come next year. Sheffield Wednesday, WE'RE COMING FOR YOU!
UP THE BLADES
#COYRAWW
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