Chapter 86: Wembley Showdown
Saturday, May 15, 2010
The FA Cup Final Begins
The Wembley tunnel was quiet compared with the noise coming from the stadium. The walls echoed with footsteps and voices, and the players waited in line for the teams to walk out.
Crawley stood together in their red kits, each player wearing one of the red wristbands they had been given by Niels.
Max was at the front. His captain's armband was firmly in place, and the small painted stone he had been given was safely tucked away in his bag.
Thiago bounced lightly on his feet, trying to stay relaxed. The red ribbon around his wrist was still there.
Luka stood quietly beside him, checking his boots one last time.
Niels walked along the line.
"This is it," he said. "Chelsea are favourites, but we've earned the right to be here. Work for each other, stay focused and enjoy the game. Go out there and show everyone what Crawley can do."
