This is really our Cup Final on this great St. George’s Day,
But will it end in massive smiles, or in total disarray?
More European adventures can be stopped only by Hammers,
So, will they spoil the party for which the whole of Teesside clamours?

Throughout the entire first half and until the fiftieth minute,
Boro totally bossed the show and West Ham were never in it,
But domination counts for nothing, if you don’t go on to score,
Then there’s Ashton teamed with Harewood, and that we can’t ignore.

We certainly had the chances to score a goal or two,
Then Ashton clattered Schwarzer and left him black and blue,
After being substituted tests revealed a fractured cheek,
That will keep him on the sidelines and his World Cup hopes look bleak.

The score remained at nil-nil when the half-time point was reached,
Then, early in the second half, Boro’s goal was almost breached,
But we managed to survive when Ashton’s effort struck the bar,
And the tired Boro legs were now performing below par.

As time was running out there was cause for celebration,
For the Hammers fans – not Boro’s – by a flash of inspiration,
The sheer strength of Marlon Harewood then a quite fantastic finish,
Just had to be applauded although Boro’s hopes now diminish.

It’s those glorious, missed chances that the Boro will now lament,
But we got what we deserved and there can be no argument,
I’m sure if we beat Steaua then the lads will be excused,
After finishing this match gutted: egos and bodies bruised.

We had that late, late flurry, but it was all a bridge too far,
Although the door back into Europe still remains ajar,
Though our F.A. Cup dream’s ended, for at least another season,
Do get prepared for Thursday and the biggest night of our season.

For it’s then that the Boro make their final push for glory,
A UEFA Cup Final – now there’s a lovely story!
But, for now, on this St. George’s Day, when the Boro dragon was slain,
Remember: Thursday night its win or bust: Can we bounce back again?

McClaren needs one final push from all his shattered troops,
It’s time to clear the heads and ensure the team regroups,
Viduka may be fit again after Schwarzer paid the cost,
We need another miracle, although all is not yet lost.

(24-04-2006)