Football

It's often been said that football is a funny old game. Today my team Newcastle United takes on their greatest rivals Sunderland. This is a fixture which has been played well over one hundred times and every time the next game comes round I and many others have the same feelings of nervous tension until it is all over. There's really no need, it after all only a game but try telling that to the thousands of people at the game and watching on tv.
This game matters to the followers of both teams a huge amount and sets the tone in each city for months to come. After the debacle last season where Sunderland ran out easy winners at Newcastle's home ground many have been waiting for this game with eager anticipation. Especially Newcastle supporters who would dearly like to gain revenge at the home of their old enemy.
Speaking of enmity, it seems that over the last few years there has built up a degree of hatred between the fans of each side which I never knew as a youngster. I knew people who had season tickets for both clubs and attended the games of whichever team was playing at home. Nowadays that would be seen as treachery.
Sad really that things have come to this as it does take away some of the enjoyment of the game and the discussions afterwards when people seem to lose any sense of perspective they may have and revert to tribalism.
Anyway, I hope that today's game is a sporting occasion with both sides giving their utmost, the fans supporting their respective teams with gusto and no silliness from the numpty brigade who like to cause bother.
Here's to a good game and a win for the Mighty Magpies. ttfn.