The Glorious Optimism Of The Opening Day Of The Football Season

There is nothing quite like the first day of the football season. For a golden moment just before kick off, the woes, the waiting and the speculation of the close season can be consigned to the past. For a brief period, last season's troubles can be forgotten. In those moments leading up to kick off on the opening day, all football fans are equal. Before the whistle blows on Day One and the reality of the new season sets in, anything is possible.

Every football fan says to themself (and probaly to anybody else within earshot)... Maybe... Just maybe... This might be our year. And the the whistle blows and the waiting is over. Within 90 minutes, for so many, the hope gives way to grim reality.

Speaking as a Sunderland fan though, the hope continues for another week. A classy 1-0 win at Bolton leaves us joint leaders after 1 game!! Maybe... Just maybe...