The game was soccer. The country was South Africa. But the fans were all American and English, on Saturday.
Walking into Cricketers Arms Pub on International Drive, the theme for the day was fun. Painted faces, flags and decorations matched the patriotic outfits of both English and U.S. fans, setting the tone for the afternoon.
The United States and England battled for victory on their first soccer match in the 2010 World Cup.
Phil Coppen, owner of Cricketers Arms, knew that such an event was going to be a success. In business for more than 19 years, the British Pub was the first to host live satellite soccer matches.
–The World Cup was no different.
Joined by British friends, Cricketers Arms hosted a watch party for fans wanting to have an experience of a lifetime.
The event was sponsored by Peachey’s website Iloveyouraccent.com, a local dating site for British and Americans trying to find love.
Tickets were five dollars, but the first beer was on the house. Ten days before the big game, Coppen had to stop selling tickets. The Pub had reached its capacity, and more than 200 people were turned away at the door.
“I knew it was going to be a success, but I had no idea it was going to be this crazy,” Coppen said. “I had people calling me and telling me they were stopping by, and all I could do was sit and watch people get turned away at the door.”
Coppen on the other hand, did not disappoint the locals dying to watch the game. Since the party inside was too much, he took the event outdoors. An outside bar and a satellite TV were set up with chairs and tables for those that wanted to participate as much as they could.
When the game started, so did the predictions.
“I think the U.S. has a real good shot to come out of this with a point. England started the season with problems from the last world cup,” U.S. fan Mike Foster said.
–But, the English also had something to say.
“I’m a little cautious, but I still think the English will come out on top 2-1,” English fan Sein Stetson said.
By halftime, the scoreboard said 1-1. U.S fans chanted “USA” while English fans booed and sang their national anthem. The friendly competition inside, outdid even the soccer players on the field.
Free t-shirts, a DJ and a $50 dollar bar tab for the best English accent during halftime, had fans oblivious to the 98-degree heat.
“We have people here trying to do an English accent but they can’t do it,” Peachey said laughing and shaking her head. “It’s time to switch to an American accent.”
–Interestingly enough, the American accent won.
English winner Carl Walters, grinned as he displayed his diploma for “Best Accent”. He had only one plan for his winnings.
“Drink it!” Walters said.
The next 45 minutes of the second half had most fans on edge. The scoreboard never changed, but the party never stopped because of it.
“It was a classic match-up,” U.S. fan Shawn LaFata, said. “The rivalry between the two teams it’s legendary. It shows how strong they are when they play together.”
For most, they had found a new place to watch the games.
“I think I found my home,” Justin Carlton said. “If the U.S advances, which I hope they do, I know where to go for a nice atmosphere and a friendly environment.”
Cricketers Arms Pub is located on North International Drive and they will be hosting another watch party on Friday. For more information, go to: www.cricketersarmspub.com.
Fernanda Barros reporting for West Orlando News Online
