Soccer: Manchester City fan's cup flight

Chris Reed. Photo / Doug Sherring

Mad Manchester City fan Chris Reed has proved his loyalty - by flying to the FA Cup final from New Zealand. Reed scrambled to organise a weekend trip to Wembley after landing a coveted ticket on Tuesday. "My mates think I'm stupid but I'm just mad for City," said Reed, a 39-year-old journalist.

"I've supported them for 30 years and never seen them win anything so I'd be stupid to miss this match."

He was a season ticket holder before moving to New Zealand 11 years ago.

He spent a month's wages on the trip but couldn't afford to miss City fighting for their first big trophy, against Stoke City, since 1976.

"Manchester's full of United fans who can't be bothered leaving their armchair to go to Old Trafford. Being there is everything for City supporters."