Matthew 27:21

‘But the governor answered and said to them, “Which of the two will you that I release to you?” And they said, “Barabbas.” '

Having painted the picture found in Matthew 27:18 Matthew now comes back to Pilate's question to the crowds. Pilate wants them to make a choice between the two. Their reply confirmed his fears. They asked for Barabbas whom they probably saw as something of a hero. He had done what they would have liked to do, but had never dared to, cock a snook at the Romans.