Manchester City's players rushed to celebrate, while the Wimbledon squad stood dejected, heads bowed and hands resting on their hips in disappointment.
Richard, in the VIP's box, sighed in relief. Almost without realizing it, he found himself clapping for City — though half of his applause was meant for Wimbledon.
Richard knew the reality: this was the team with the smallest budget in the Premier League, a club without even a permanent stadium of their own (renting Selhurst Park instead).
And yet, this rough-and-tumble side carried a unique spirit. Even if they weren't particularly strong, a club with such character deserved respect. This was a team not admired for beauty, but feared for toughness and effectiveness.
