It’s not often that you can mention these two sides in the same sentence, yet yesterday there was reason for both Stevenage and Barcelona to celebrate. League Two team Stevenage completed a memorable journey to seal a playoff final victory against Torquay and gain promotion, while Barcelona did what everyone expected and beat Manchester United in 3-1 fashion to lift the Champions League trophy.
For Stevenage, their success over recent times has been remarkable and it seems hard to believe that just two years ago they were plying their trade in the Conference. Manager Graham Westley has now masterminded back-to-back promotions after a John Mousinho effort helped the Boro to a 1-0 win over Torquay yesterday afternoon.
While Stevenage success is superb, we now go to the other end of the spectrum where Barcelona once again showed why they are classed by some as the greatest ever team. The Catalan outfit were classed as clear favourites by the bookmakers, with many even offering money-back offers if the Spanish side won, and with that it came as no surprise as they coasted to a 3-1 victory over Manchester United.
Pep Guardiola’s side were in control from the start and while they were pegged back to 1-1 after taking an early lead, a stunning second half display saw Barcelona lift the Champions League trophy for a second time in three years.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson claimed his opponents were the greatest side he’s ever face and after that statement, you just have to wonder who is going to stop them. With such a nucleus of young talent, there is surely more to come from this and from the neutral’s perspective that is a fantastic prospect. Luckily for them, manager Guardiola has already confirmed his commitment for the future, which should allow for even more success.



























