The rain had stopped falling. It was the ninetieth minute. The clock showed 89:58.
Leo Stone stood over the ball. The white leather sphere sat perfectly on the green grass. It was twenty yards from the goal.
This was the moment... Manchester City were drawing 2 to 2 with West Ham. The news was confirmed. If Barnsley scored this free kick they would win the match 3 to 2. They would have 87 points. City would have 87 points. But Barnsley had the better goal difference thanks to the 4 to 0 win against Villa.
One kick for the Premier League title.
Michael Sterling stood on the touchline. He was not breathing. He held Arthur Milton hand. Arthur was shaking like a leaf in a storm.
"Do it Leo," Michael whispered. "Just put it in the net."
Leo Stone looked at the wall.
Diego Nunez was standing next to Tarkowski the Everton defender. Diego was big. He was wide. He winked at Leo.
Referee Sharp blew the whistle.
Leo Stone took a deep breath. He ran up.
