Delia's outburst talk of the game

Delia galvanising supporters at half-time

A half-time outburst by Delia Smith during Norwich City's home game against Manchester City has upset some fans who say it was a disgrace to football.

Smith, a director, got on the pitch and urged them to show more support, sparking criticism on the club website.

But Roy Blower, of the Independent Supporters' Association, said her "ill-advised" outburst showed her commitment to the Canaries.

Mr Blower hailed her "the lifeblood of the club".

Delia took to the Carrow Road pitch after watching the players throw away a 2-0 lead to go in level at 2-2 at the break.

Maybe, when she today reflects on what she did, she will think it was ill advised. We are all human after all. Ray Blower, of the club's Independent Supporters' Association

With microphone in hand, she announced: "This is a message for possibly the best supporters in the world.

"We need a 12th man here. Where are you? Where are you? Let's be having you. Come on."

Sadly, her words failed to have the galvanising effect intended. The side lost leaving them one place off the bottom in the Premiership and five points adrift of safety.

Mr Blower said: "I have mixed feelings about what she did, but you have to put it in context.

"She has a heart as big as a barndoor and is passionate about Norwich City.

"Maybe, when she today reflects on what she did, she will think it was ill advised. We are all human after all.

"But I just hope people don't remember this small incident and it doesn't overshadow all the good she has done for the club because she has immersed herself in it.

"I have every admiration for her. She could walk on water as far as I'm concerned."