WHEN someone supports a team in any sport they usually do so with all their heart and passion.

They would save up for a season ticket, buy a replica shirt and similar merchandise, put a sticker in the car window and perhaps go even further by decorating the house in the team's colours.

And most of all they would shout about their allegiance from the rooftops, 'bigging up' their club to others whether it be at work, school or play.

On a match day they would sing their heart out for the lads (or girls as the case may be) and cheer themselves hoarse until the next time.

So, the idea that supporters of teams have 'second teams' baffles and amuses me.

I've followed Warrington Wolves since I was a nipper and been lucky enough to be able to turn that fanaticism into a profession.

But I find it quite bizarre to think that the emotions tied in with Wolves could be shared, even in a diluted form, for any other club.

You wouldn't catch me stood on the terraces at Knowsley Road cheering on St Helens or sat in the stands at the JJB Stadium applauding Wigan Warriors.

Nor would I adopt a nearby lesser rival, say Swinton or Rochdale.

I just couldn't do it. In fact, I'd rather do housework than that!

That does not mean to say I don't watch other games. I do and that's because I appreciate good rugby league but I don't go through the same emotional journey when I might be admiring the skills on show.

I would have thought that most people feel the same way as me, whether their choice of sport be rugby league, football or any other.

But I do know one or two people who follow more than one club in the same sport - they've got too much time on their hands for starters!

And the idea cropped up quite a lot in the wake of Newcastle United appointing Kevin Keegan as their new manager last Wednesday.

Supposedly, according to some pundits and experts I've heard on the radio, Newcastle are many people's 'second team' and even more so now that Keegan's back in charge.

But why? I appreciate the national media are excited about Keegan and the north east club's command of column inches has stepped up quite a few notches.

However, are we to accept that the rise in excitement on Tyneside has spread itself south and contaminated the most ardent supporters of the likes of Everton, Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United.

Perhaps we should all get ready to see Warrington town centre full of football fans wearing Liverpool or Manchester United shirts with Newcastle scarves wrapped round their necks.

And next month, when the new Super League season opens, be prepared for some Wolves fans donning their primrose and blue colours with pride but wearing cherry and white undies for their 'second team'.

I don't think so.

Supporting a team for real plays a big part in your life and you give it everything.

You live it, breathe it, sleep it and work everything else around it.

That's the allegiance, the pledge and the pride that you feel.

Anything else would be like cheating on a partner. No thanks!