In relegation Norwich City fans showed great heart

For 20 minutes it felt like the great escape might actually be on. For that was the time between Norwich City taking the lead against Watford and news filtering through to fans armed with mobile phones that relegation rivals Sunderland had taken the lead.

Like so much of this frustrating season, the moments of joy for City fans were all too fleeting. And then something strange happened. City's dedicated band of supporters decided they were going to have fun anyway, whatever the outcome once the final whistle blew.

Relegation has never been so much fun.

Chants repeatedly rang out around Carrow Road. Even those in the Jarrold Stand joined in.

On the Ball City was given an airing, followed by a defiant message for City's rivals down the road. Watch out Ipswich Town, we're coming for you. And finally manager Alex Neil was given a surefire sign that, for many at least, he remains the man they want to lead the team. Even he responded with a wave.

It wasn't that supporters didn't care. Quite the opposite in fact, rarely has a season that started with so much promise, proven so disappointing.

Instead it was a sign that no matter what happens on the field to Norwich City Football Club, the fantastic spirit of its supporters will not wane.

Of course questions still need to be asked as to how this happened. How the mistakes of the past were repeated once more.

But for now Norwich supporters can be consoled by the fact that, if they are the beating heart of this wonderful club, that heart beats strong.