One word- hate. It separates every British football supporter from one another. And to add fuel to the fire, they have to share the same stadium, week in and week out. Just the thought of it is scary. No stadium in the world is big enough to house two different sets of supporters, that when it comes down to the nitty gritty, will kill for their heroes. Yes, you heard me- murder. Put that pride, passion and sheer stupidity in a stadium together and you’ve got yourself an earth-shattering atmosphere.
I recently had the privilege of catching the football spectacle that is Manchester United versus Liverpool. There is nothing bigger. This is it, the ultimate showdown on the football calendar. These players are absolutely the best on show, they are the best of their trade, and they are on display for all to see.
Because of the occasion, Supersport decided to leave out the pre-match in-studio analysis, and instead cut straight to live scenes from Old Trafford in Manchester. The atmosphere was electric. Constant screaming from the Liverpool supporters was drowned out unceremoniously by the United supporters again and again. The hatred was boiling over, and the air was filled with excitement. United’s fans proudly waving their favourite scarves in the air, letting all the traveling Liverpudlians know exactly where they were. The profanities were flaring and the gestures flying, as the build-up reached boiling point before the players stepped out. It’s not often you see a child throwing a middle finger across the stadium directed to the Liverpool fans, promptly followed by a high five from his father. The deafening noise continued throughout the game, and if anyone there thought that their voice would not be damaged after the ninety minutes, they were sadly mistaken.
The element that sets this contest- with its atmosphere, players and supporters- apart from anything else, is the history. So deep and rich, the history of the Manchester-Liverpool rivalry can not be matched. These players have grown up throughout their lives with one thing that is very clear: to detest the opposition and all they stand for. These athletes have been competing since their childhood years. And they know, on the professional arena, they will do battle once again for everyone to enjoy.
Something that can sum up exactly what this derby stands for are the captain's of the respective teams. Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), and Gary Neville (United). The camera’s cut to the tunnel where the two teams lined up before they took to the field. Captains up front, leading their respective sides into battle. There was a small hold-up so the teams stood side by side for at least five minutes. Gerrard and Neville did not even acknowledge that the other man was there. For the entire duration of the time they stared straight ahead, focused on the inevitable battle that was about to ensue. Superhuman concentration, chest- bursting pride, undeniable hatred and talent to burn. This was something special.
Regrettably I have not experienced this main event live, but I’d like to think that one day I’ll have the honour.
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