MIDDLESBROUGH fans Karen and Jacob Ross were never going to miss out on this week’s epic 1,500-mile trip to watch their beloved Teessiders.
Boro beat Exeter in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday but are heading back to the South West tomorrow to face Plymouth.
Two gruelling trips that would put off even some of the most hardcore supporters – but not this mother and son.
They travelled to Exeter with former Prem ref Jeff Winter on Tuesday before stopping over and heading back to the North East on Wednesday.
And they were off on the same route yesterday morning to cheer on Michael Carrick’s play-off chasing Boro.
Karen told SunSport: “It’s been hectic and I daren’t work it out but this week has easily cost £600.
“I know it’s corny but it’s in your blood. You just do it, it becomes natural and you can’t buy the memories and moments.
“When you travel that far and you come back with a win, I just have to look at Jacob’s face if you want value for money.”
Around 1,400 fans packed out Exeter’s sold-out away end and, incredibly, there will be no spare seats at Plymouth as 1,600 head to Home Park.
And Karen added: “You get your hat, scarf, coat and goodies, get in the car, stop off at the services and see a lot of the same faces. You become like a family.”
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So what are their rituals to pass the time?
Jacob said: “We always have a football quiz on the way down, we talk about the players and try to predict the team and score.
“The way back depends on if we win or lose but we’ll be looking at the player ratings and debating them. There are always good laughs though!
“And hopefully our good times will continue. We went seven games without a win at the start of the season but it’s all coming together now.”
On the sensational backing, Carrick said: “Honestly, it’s unbelievable – and we had a brilliant following at Norwich the week before!
“They are three of the longest journeys you can get and we don’t take it for granted.
“For those travelling from Exeter and back, and then Plymouth and back, we thank them an awful lot.
“For those that have stayed down there, I hope they’ve had a nice few days and hopefully we can give them a performance to make it worthwhile.
“Tuesday was great for them and we’ll try and do it all over again. We just want to repay their effort.”
