Watford fans pulled together in the toughest of times over the weekend to prove beyond doubt that they’re some of the best supporters on the planet.
It’s fair to say Manchester City were always favourites on the day, but even the most radical of football followers wouldn’t have predicted that Watford would suffer a 6-0 thrashing at the hands of the Premier League champions in the FA Cup Final on Saturday, May 18.
It would’ve been enough to leave any fan base shell-shocked and depleted – except for Watford’s, that is.
5-0 down with nine minutes left to play at Wembley Stadium, and there wasn’t one empty seat in sight in the Watford end – in fact, there was instead wave upon wave of yellow and red flags, held up in unison by the Hornet faithful.
Their prideful stance didn’t go unnoticed – some of Watford’s top players paid tribute to the fans straight after the disappointing finale.
Watford ‘keeper Heurelho Gomes, who may have made his last appearance of his career in the final, said: “I’m so proud of our supporters, (they were) amazing until the end, until the final minutes they were singing.”
Adrian Mariappa, who came through the Watford ranks, couldn’t believe the reception at the end of the match.
He said: “The fans were incredible even at 6-0 down. That’s what this club is all about. It is an honour to put the shirt on and play in front of those fans every week.”
Manager Javi Gracia added: “I am very proud of my supporters. It was difficult for them but they supported us until the end and I am very proud of this club. It is difficult for me to explain with words my feelings for them – I am very proud of them.”
It was an unsatisfactory end to an extravagant FA Cup journey and overall season for Watford, but the club’s players and fans alike have been quick to point out that it was still, in fact, one of the best years in their history.
Picture courtesy of Alan Cozzi/Watford FC
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