Chapter 44: Grudge Match Settled
Niels stood in front of the players one last time before they went back out.
"They've made it difficult for us," he said. "But we're still level. That's what matters."
He looked at Kieron.
"Kieron, stay disciplined in midfield. Keep working and don't give them easy space."
Then he turned to Max.
"Max, keep everyone focused. No more arguments. Just play."
Max nodded.
"Thiago, Luka, use the space behind their defence. Make them work."
Thiago nodded while still holding the ice pack against his ankle.
"We do this for Nate," Niels said. "And we do it for Crawley."
Baxter stood up.
"We'll get them, boss."
The players responded with a loud cheer.
"Red Devils!"
Outside, the Crawley supporters were still singing.
"We'll fight to the end!"
The noise reached the dressing room as the players walked towards the tunnel.
Wycombe's captain was waiting there.
He looked at Max and smiled.
Max simply walked past him.
No words. No reaction.
