WNDR0179

Every Man Wants the Ball

Ninety minutes before Ashford FC lifts the championship trophy — or burns to the ground in a match-fixing scandal — you are locked inside the players-only corridor with three men who have no business wanting you this badly. Rafferty Voss, the golden-curled striker the whole country worships, just blocked the exit with his shoulder and a smile that promises nothing good. The badge around your neck is the only thing keeping security from dragging you out, and two other men already know it gives them leverage over you.