Romance of Cup? This one reeks like hell

EVERYONE loves a plucky underdog story and they don't get any better than the cracker on offer today.

- MICHAEL GANNON

Auckland City are taking on Bayern Munich at the FIFA World Club Cup over in the US. It's not so much David versus Goliath... it's David's speccy wee brother with the limp taking on Goliath and a couple of his big pals.

The New Zealanders are amateurs for a start.

Vice-captain Adam Mitchell is an estate agent while the likes of Bayern's Harry Kane could buy a house every week on his wages and still have dosh left over to decorate.

The rest of City’s side is made up of forklift drivers, sales reps and teachers.

It's enough to warm the heart seeing them mix it in a group with Bayern, Benfica and Boca Juniors.

It might even convince some folk into thinking the new-look competition has a hint of romance.

But don't be fooled. There's nothing lovey-dovey about the World Club Cup.