The runners-up host the Champions in a pat each other on the back and mutual congratulatory fixture. The only gatecrasher being the home town leg breaker.
The Saddlers entered the pitch through a Fulham guard of honour which was so very Kevin Keegan and took a deserved standing ovation from all four sides of the stadium.
The match itself resembled a friendly as both sides had nothing to gain from a victory or a broken leg (with the exception of SH) - isn’t it ironic that his initials are the first two letters in the word shit.
Rob Stiener opened the scoring before former wanderer Jamie Smith levelled following some neat work from the impressive Coleman. Ian Roper restored our advantage late on before the leg breaker levelled matters from 25 yarder. He then proceeded to put his hand to his ear to mock the Alsop End, before scarpering for his life at full time as half of the Alsop End looked to put their hand on his ear.
The players returned shortly after to receive their runners up medals and did a lap of honour. At times like these you realise why you went to Wigan and stood in the pouring rain watching another away defeat.
Not being a glory hunter I’m not sure what it’s like for the ‘twice a season brigade’ when the good times come. Does it mean as much to them as it does to me? I doubt it can but it must mean something or they wouldn’t come.
Runners up eh. Who would have believed it?