The FA Cup Final is one of the stand-out events in the English football calendar. Forget the underdog heroes of the game's oldest club cup competition. The 2012 final is a clash of the titans as FA Cup heavyweights Liverpool and Chelsea go head-to-head in an anticipated Wembley date!
Every major cup final now means the launch of a special edition match-ball. From the World Cup final to the FA Cup final, each football that takes centre stage has been re-dressed in a way fitting of the occasion. Umbro have today unveiled their new look Umbro Neo 2 Pro match ball that will travel to Wembley Stadium on May 5th.
For the passionate fans, this limited Umbro Neo 2 Pro ball represents a piece of footballing history. For Liverpool fans, it could be FA Cup number 8 and their second trophy cabinet addition of the season after already tasting Wembley victory in the Carling Cup. For Chelsea, it could mark their seventh FA Cup victory in a season where they could also enjoy double cup-winning success.
As for the ball itself, the black and white design certainly packs a more aggressive punch than past editions! Tech-wise, the new Umbro Neo 2 Pro ball is an evolution on their winning Neo design. The Neo 2 takes everything that was successful about the original – the classic design, the true flight – and develops it into Umbro's most advanced ball.
Crafted from 14 hand-stitched panels to provide a greater strike zone, the Neo 2 Pro has a Teijin outer casing for superb elasticity and a soft touch. With a high density foam giving enhanced power and touch control, the Neo 2 Pro ball also features the FA Cup crest and Umbro logo.
Who are you backing for FA Cup glory at Wembley and what you think of Umbro's new design for the Neo 2 Pro. Share your thoughts and join the conversation online, on Twitter and on Facebook,