Metro Jacksonville

Living in Jacksonville => Sports => Topic started by: konstantconsumer on June 07, 2010, 09:52:05 PM

Title: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: konstantconsumer on June 07, 2010, 09:52:05 PM
I'm excited about the match on saturday against England, but I have a *tiny* tv and i don't have cable.  Where is the best place to watch soccer in Jax?  I'd prefer something closer to downtown so that I don't have to travel far.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: fieldafm on June 07, 2010, 09:55:39 PM
London Bridge is doing a whole big week for the World Cup.  I believe they are opening at 8am Friday morning for the Mexico/South Africa game.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: blizz01 on June 07, 2010, 10:31:54 PM
Ha ha - this came up during qualifying - here's the original thread with a few more:

http://www.metrojacksonville.com/forum/index.php?topic=5758.0
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Captain Zissou on June 07, 2010, 10:42:22 PM
It's ghetto, but Mr Taco on Bowden Road has soccer on all the time.  It's one of my favorite lunch spots, as I can walk there from work and it's delicious. 

I'll be watching the game somewhere on Saturday.  I hope London Bridge has a good crowd.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: aaapolito on June 08, 2010, 06:33:47 AM
I would think that O'Brothers, Kickbacks, and London Bridge would be good.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: civil42806 on June 08, 2010, 06:40:00 AM
Some where where there is either baseball, hockey or basketball on tv  ;)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 08, 2010, 03:12:21 PM
I work for British Airways and a bunch of us are going to Chicago Pizza on Philips.  I will be rooting for the US though.  This is the first world cup I have missed since 94.  This time around I couldn't justify it with a baby on the way
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: RiversideJodi on June 08, 2010, 03:15:42 PM
O'Brothers just posted their schedule on Facebook, here it is http://obrothers.food.officelive.com/WorldCup10.aspx

Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: 5 Points Theatre on June 08, 2010, 05:53:02 PM
We've got USA vs. England this Saturday on our 25' wide screen!

Doors open at 2 pm.  Beer, wine, popcorn and pizza.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 08, 2010, 11:26:22 PM
Quote from: danno on June 08, 2010, 03:12:21 PM
I work for British Airways and a bunch of us are going to Chicago Pizza on Philips.  I will be rooting for the US though.  This is the first world cup I have missed since 94.  This time around I couldn't justify it with a baby on the way

Well I like both BA and soccer-- and since the strike made it impossible to advance schedule oh-so-convenient meetings in London so that one could catch the game at one's regular pub--perhaps we'll join the BA crowd for the game.

I'll buy a few rounds for anyone who gives me the inside scoop for getting top dollar out of ash cloud delay claims. ;)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 09, 2010, 12:34:45 PM
Quote from: 5 Points Theatre on June 08, 2010, 05:53:02 PM
We've got USA vs. England this Saturday on our 25' wide screen!

Doors open at 2 pm.  Beer, wine, popcorn and pizza.


This is also tempting.

What's the TV situation at Chicago Pizza, Danno? Will there be multiple TVs on the WC game?
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: tufsu1 on June 09, 2010, 12:53:23 PM
They have 60+ TVs at that Chicago Pizza location...so I would assume so.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 09, 2010, 01:27:01 PM
I have been told they will have 75% of their TV's on for the match.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 12, 2010, 07:08:23 AM
It's a shame we don't have someplace like this to watch the game.

http://www.victorypark.com/ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS.aspx (http://www.victorypark.com/ENTERTAINMENT/EVENTS.aspx)



Oh wait a minute.... We do, It's called The Landing.  We just don't have enough soccer fans here to care.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Sportmotor on June 12, 2010, 07:20:23 AM
My house with my crazy ass sound system+LCD tv combo :D
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: kells904 on June 12, 2010, 08:34:11 AM
I'll be watching the game in sunny southwestern England, in an ever-growing sea of red & white flags, surrounded by drunken, football-lovin' Brits.  Should be lots of fun...or dangerous.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on June 12, 2010, 10:18:17 AM
And you will be lucky if it stays sunny!  LOL!  Sounds like fun.  Just don't cheer to loud if the US scores.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: kells904 on June 12, 2010, 11:24:00 AM
Yeah, the clouds like to roll around at about 1:00, but today they seemed to have stayed away for the Queen's birthday.  Happy B-Day, Queen, here's a beatdown-American style  :)

I'm pretty subdued even during Jags games, so I should be ok. 
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 12, 2010, 12:51:02 PM
Cheer loudly. The England fans will lovingly take the piss out of you, but you'll most likely survive. :)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on June 12, 2010, 04:55:39 PM
Just got back from watching the game at 5 Points Theater.  Big, enthusiastic, knowledgeable crowd.  Great game.  Brits were better ball movers, but US defense, esp. goalie was like a rock.

Good time!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 12, 2010, 05:05:41 PM
QuoteWell I guess thats one spill the Americans wont be complaining about.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1286074/WORLD-CUP-2010-Afghanistan-troops-send-good-luck-video-England-squad.html#ixzz0qfuPKuFR



Pulled from the comments section of the page. I found it kinda funny.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: aaapolito on June 12, 2010, 07:02:22 PM
Go USA Go!  We'll take it.  It wasn't pretty, but a team has to have some luck to get through this tournament.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JeffreyS on June 12, 2010, 08:34:31 PM
I went to Lillian's and they had a great crowd Westside and Oakleaf soccer associations plus 20 or so Brits.  The place was absolutely packed with soccer jerseys, horns and face painters.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: kells904 on June 13, 2010, 06:26:02 AM
Quote from: JaxByDefault on June 12, 2010, 12:51:02 PM
Cheer loudly. The England fans will lovingly take the piss out of you, but you'll most likely survive. :)

I was discovered after the guy standing next to me overheard me talking, quickly realizing that I was with "the other guys" because of my accent.  Then I was outed by one of the girls I went with once the Star-Spangled Banner started.  It was really cool to watch the game in a place where the World Cup is such a big deal, knowing the entire country's behind one thing 100%.  And yes, once they knew I was American, they were more than friendly. It's been like that the entire time I've been here, everywhere I've gone.  Awesome experience.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 13, 2010, 09:59:56 AM
(http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2010/06/12/article-1286074-0A0257CE000005DC-582_634x391.jpg)

Brits in South Africa, at a World Cup event, England vs USA, drinking Budwieser?

Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 13, 2010, 10:42:35 AM
That sucks.  Bud is the official beer of the World Cup.  Last time around when we were in Germany that was all you could get inside the stadiums.  The German oganizing group was upset but Budwieser put up the cash.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: RiversideLoki on June 15, 2010, 02:35:51 PM
I've had to watch the games on mute. Seriously.

(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2010/6/10/1276190910492/South-African-boys-blow-t-006.jpg)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 15, 2010, 04:16:25 PM
Quote from: RiversideLoki on June 15, 2010, 02:35:51 PM
I've had to watch the games on mute. Seriously.

(http://static.guim.co.uk/sys-images/Guardian/Pix/pictures/2010/6/10/1276190910492/South-African-boys-blow-t-006.jpg)
I want a few thousand of those in teal.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on June 15, 2010, 04:24:46 PM
Quote from: buckethead on June 15, 2010, 04:16:25 PM
I want a few thousand of those in teal.

I'd buy a half dozen if you can find them.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Captain Zissou on June 15, 2010, 04:56:06 PM
They have them at Sharks games, black and red.  They're awesome.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 15, 2010, 06:03:15 PM
worldsoccershop.com. Alas, no teal but a rainbow of other colors.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JC on June 15, 2010, 06:35:01 PM
You can watch the games online live for free here http://futbol.univision.com/mexico
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 15, 2010, 07:25:47 PM
Quote from: JC on June 15, 2010, 06:35:01 PM
You can watch the games online live for free here http://futbol.univision.com/mexico
Or in english at:

atdhe.net
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: 5PointsGuy on June 15, 2010, 07:36:04 PM
Or on espn.com for free?
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 15, 2010, 08:09:17 PM
Quote from: 5PointsGuy on June 15, 2010, 07:36:04 PM
Or on espn.com for free?
I was unaware they were streaming it. Thanks!

BTW, did you guys see N Korea give Brasil a run for their money today?

I found myself rooting for North Korea....... NORTH KOREA!

What a sucker I am.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JC on June 15, 2010, 10:34:09 PM
Quote from: buckethead on June 15, 2010, 08:09:17 PM
Quote from: 5PointsGuy on June 15, 2010, 07:36:04 PM
Or on espn.com for free?
I was unaware they were streaming it. Thanks!

BTW, did you guys see N Korea give Brasil a run for their money today?

I found myself rooting for North Korea....... NORTH KOREA!

What a sucker I am.

LOL..

Did they roll out the ballistic missiles? 

I was impressed with Ivory Coast, and if the US gets bumped I may root for them.  Not sure yet though, I just hope the US trounces Slovenia!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 16, 2010, 11:37:27 AM
ANybody heading out anywhere tomorrow morning for the US vs Slovenia match????
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: lindab on June 16, 2010, 11:55:51 AM
I think the game is Friday morning.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Captain Zissou on June 16, 2010, 12:01:21 PM
It is.  The game starts Friday morning a little after 10.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on June 16, 2010, 12:20:01 PM
A stunner as the Swiss knock off Spain.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 17, 2010, 08:15:24 AM
Quote from: Captain Zissou on June 16, 2010, 12:01:21 PM
It is.  The game starts Friday morning a little after 10.

My bad.... I'm so excited I have my days mixed up.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Captain Zissou on June 17, 2010, 08:35:23 AM
Quote from: danno on June 17, 2010, 08:15:24 AM
Quote from: Captain Zissou on June 16, 2010, 12:01:21 PM
It is.  The game starts Friday morning a little after 10.

My bad.... I'm so excited I have my days mixed up.

I wish the game was today! I can't wait 25 hours and 26 minutes for my next fix.  Go USA.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 17, 2010, 09:27:38 AM
USA/ENG Recap:


http://www.youtube.com/v/WUnU3B6WsJ4&color1
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: I-10east on June 17, 2010, 11:45:50 AM
LOL. I'm not a big fan of soccer, but I do love the noisy "bee swarm-sounding" vuvuzelas; I'm a sucker for noisemakers. Go USA!!! :)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on June 18, 2010, 11:00:38 AM
Well. This sucks.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: lindab on June 18, 2010, 11:10:43 AM
They're coming back. Hang on.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on June 18, 2010, 11:12:42 AM
Good to see the early goal in the second half. We have to at least get a tie.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: lindab on June 18, 2010, 11:42:09 AM
Tie. Now, keep the pressure up on the Slovenian defense.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on June 18, 2010, 11:53:09 AM
We got robbed.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Captain Zissou on June 18, 2010, 12:01:51 PM
That ref was awful.  We had a goal stolen from us, plain and simple.  That was extremely upsetting.  We can't dwell on it, but that was an awful call on his part.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on June 18, 2010, 12:09:59 PM
I just hate to think that could prevent the US from going to the next round. We could be in first in our group but instead we are two points behind Slovenia.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JeffreyS on June 18, 2010, 12:39:25 PM
I am eager to read some of the international news about this hose job the U.S. received.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: St. Auggie on June 18, 2010, 12:48:48 PM
Its amazing that the US could look so PATHETIC for an entire half and then spend the second half praying for a tie.  And then at the end of the day the US should have won.  Amazing.  Simply amazing.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: lindab on June 18, 2010, 01:16:44 PM
 USA players standing around like idiots while Slovenia takes the ball. What is the matter with them? Getting a well deserved tongue lashing from goalie.  Tie, no win.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on June 18, 2010, 04:46:08 PM
Some good news after the England-Algeria draw.

If the US wins v. Algeria, they are in.

Also if we tie Algeria and Slovenia beats England, we are in.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 18, 2010, 04:55:12 PM
There should be a ref assassinated soon.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: tufsu1 on June 18, 2010, 08:17:14 PM
Quote from: buckethead on June 18, 2010, 04:55:12 PM
There should be a ref assassinated soon.

wow!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Charles Hunter on June 18, 2010, 08:46:22 PM
Apparently, the best place to watch the match is NOT on the field, esp. if you are wearing a yellow jersey.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 18, 2010, 09:22:09 PM
Quote from: tufsu1 on June 18, 2010, 08:17:14 PM
Quote from: buckethead on June 18, 2010, 04:55:12 PM
There should be a ref assassinated soon.

wow!
Just a bit of tongue in cheek there. Americans at large don't really care about soccer.

Now if this had happened to a Central American team...

By the way, it was an absolutely blatant robbery.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Bostech on June 18, 2010, 09:25:05 PM
US is lucky,half players for Slovenia are Serbs and goalkeeper is Bosnian...they usually lose interest in game by 50th minute,after that they are just walking around.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 18, 2010, 09:48:57 PM
Quote from: Bostech on June 18, 2010, 09:25:05 PM
I'm lucky to be in the US! Home of the best soccer team in the world, as well as apple pie, freedom and George W Bush.
Wow, Bos! Nice of you to chime in, but no need to go overboard and praise George Bush.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Bostech on June 18, 2010, 10:09:18 PM
?
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: ProjectMaximus on June 19, 2010, 01:03:04 AM
Quote from: buckethead on June 18, 2010, 09:48:57 PM
Quote from: Bostech on June 18, 2010, 09:25:05 PM
I'm lucky to be in the US! Home of the best soccer team in the world, as well as apple pie, freedom and George W Bush.
Wow, Bos! Nice of you to chime in, but no need to go overboard and praise George Bush.

lol.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: St. Auggie on June 19, 2010, 07:26:38 AM
Quote from: Bostech on June 18, 2010, 09:25:05 PM
US is lucky,half players for Slovenia are Serbs and goalkeeper is Bosnian...they usually lose interest in game by 50th minute,after that they are just walking around.


Americans usually lose interest before the game even starts.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 19, 2010, 09:13:30 AM
From: http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5304289/ce/us/fifa-ax-us-slovenia-ref-wc?campaign=rss&source=twitter&ex_cid=Twitter_espn_5304289&cc=5901&ver=us (http://soccernet.espn.go.com/world-cup/story/_/id/5304289/ce/us/fifa-ax-us-slovenia-ref-wc?campaign=rss&source=twitter&ex_cid=Twitter_espn_5304289&cc=5901&ver=us)

QuoteMalian referee Koman Coulibaly, criticized for disallowing a potentially U.S.-winning goal off a free kick in Friday's U.S.-Slovenia World Cup clash, may be dropped by FIFA for the rest of the World Cup, according to a Yahoo! Sports report.

Citing a FIFA source, the report says Coulibaly is poised to face an expedited performance review from the refereeing committee of world football's governing body. Officials plan to review footage on Saturday from the Group C game to evaluate Coulibaly's performance after several U.S. players blasted his handling of the match, Yahoo said.

Second-half sub Maurice Edu appeared to put the U.S. ahead in the 86th minute, poking in a close-range shot after Landon Donovan's free kick to him. But the goal was waved off by Couilibaly, though it was not clear on whom the foul was called or what the foul was.

After the match, Donovan said he asked the referee what the call was but did not get an answer.

"We asked the ref many times what it was or who it was on and he wouldn't or couldn't explain it," Donovan said. "I don't know what to think of the call because I didn't see any foul, just a normal free kick and a goal."

Referees must submit a written report to FIFA after each match, but it is not specified in the rule that he must fully explain a ruling such as this.

FIFA refereeing rules state: "The referee shall hand over to the FIFA general coordinator a match report at the stadium immediately after the match. On the report form the referee shall note all occurrences such as misconduct of players leading to caution or expulsion, unsporting behavior by supporters and/or by officials or any other person acting on behalf of an association at the match and any other incident happening before, during and after the match in as much detail as possible."

Coulibaly could still appear, according to the source, as a line judge or other supporting role, but is unlikely to be given assignments to referee further matches.

"If he is found to have made a serious mistake, especially one that affected the outcome, then he would be highly unlikely to play any further part in the tournament," Yahoo quoted the source as saying. "FIFA is determined to keep refereeing standards high and does not want high-profile mistakes."

The controversial call comes four years after the 2006 finals in Germany where the refereeing was roundly condemned after a spate of controversies.

It led to FIFA setting up a special referee's assistance program to better train top officials for the 2010 finals.

Among those refereeing in South Africa are Benito Archundia of Mexico, who handled the 2006 semifinal between Germany and Italy, and Italian Roberto Rosetti, who also officiated the Euro 2008 final in Vienna.

The 39-year-old Coulibaly has been officiating in African soccer competitions for 17 years and called the final of the African Cup of Nations between Ghana and Egypt earlier this year.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.

Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 19, 2010, 10:26:33 AM
We have a UK sports reporter friend who covered the US game, he said Donovan was surly and visibly angry in the post-game presser. No kidding.

Apparently, the ref gave several members of the press different explanations for the whistle -- from off-side to a foul on Edu--before refusing to comment further.

Between the blown call for the US and England's poor pitch performance, it has not been a good last 24 WC hours in the JBD household.

Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 19, 2010, 11:15:23 AM
I think the English always play with a chip on their shoulder and it really showed yesterday.  The are all a bch of prima donnas.  The English supporters were classless booing their team off the pitch and Rooney was even more classless by slamming them for it.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on June 19, 2010, 12:00:33 PM
Bos,  the Slovenian team may have been mostly Serbs, but the sure know how to move the ball around better than the US team.  Without the US goalie, Tim Howard, the score would have been about 5-3 not 2-2.

Howard thinks that his Tourettes Syndrome makes him a better goalie and he is awesome! (Twitch, jerk, snort)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Bostech on June 19, 2010, 12:19:15 PM
All players from ex-Yu suffer from laziness,Serbs or Bosnians (which made most of Slovenian team,since Slovenians cant play soccer...or fight wars).
They play good at first but lose interest once they get tired or start wining,Hey we got this,we won game before it even ends.
You need to install zapper in their shorts and every time they slow down,zap them to wake them up and keep playing.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 19, 2010, 02:32:42 PM
Quote from: Bostech on June 19, 2010, 12:19:15 PM
All players from ex-Yu suffer from laziness,Serbs or Bosnians (which made most of Slovenian team,since Slovenians cant play soccer...or fight wars).
They play good at first but lose interest once they get tired or start wining,Hey we got this,we won game before it even ends.
You need to install zapper in their shorts and every time they slow down,zap them to wake them up and keep playing.

Lack of motivation being a leftover vestige of the days of Communism/Socialism? ;)


Sorry, Bos... I couldn't resist.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on June 19, 2010, 04:35:17 PM
Nah, they were just cocky from having literally run circles around the US players for the entire first half.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Bostech on June 19, 2010, 08:14:48 PM
Quote from: buckethead on June 19, 2010, 02:32:42 PM
Quote from: Bostech on June 19, 2010, 12:19:15 PM
All players from ex-Yu suffer from laziness,Serbs or Bosnians (which made most of Slovenian team,since Slovenians cant play soccer...or fight wars).
They play good at first but lose interest once they get tired or start wining,Hey we got this,we won game before it even ends.
You need to install zapper in their shorts and every time they slow down,zap them to wake them up and keep playing.

Lack of motivation being a leftover vestige of the days of Communism/Socialism? ;)


Sorry, Bos... I couldn't resist.
Quote from: buckethead on June 19, 2010, 02:32:42 PM
Quote from: Bostech on June 19, 2010, 12:19:15 PM
All players from ex-Yu suffer from laziness,Serbs or Bosnians (which made most of Slovenian team,since Slovenians cant play soccer...or fight wars).
They play good at first but lose interest once they get tired or start wining,Hey we got this,we won game before it even ends.
You need to install zapper in their shorts and every time they slow down,zap them to wake them up and keep playing.

Lack of motivation being a leftover vestige of the days of Communism/Socialism? ;)


Sorry, Bos... I couldn't resist.
Its a Balkan thing,Greeks are lazy too.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 22, 2010, 08:16:39 AM
Several of us from the office are heading over to Sneakers at Baymeadows and 9A for the US/Algeria and England/Slovina matches that start at 0930 on Wed.  Doors open at 0900 if you want to join us.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on June 22, 2010, 09:11:19 AM
I might make my way out to Sneakers to watch. I think BW3 on Baymeadows is opening early as well.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JC on June 22, 2010, 10:03:00 AM
Quote from: Bostech on June 19, 2010, 08:14:48 PM

Its a Balkan thing,Greeks are lazy too.

I should move, I knew something seemed wrong!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Lucasjj on June 23, 2010, 12:27:44 PM
What an awesome match! USA should have won that more easily with all the chances they had, but the final outcome was great. I can't wait for Saturday.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: BridgeTroll on June 23, 2010, 12:28:52 PM
GOOOOOAAAAL!   :o

I was able to watch the last twenty minutes at London Bridge... Pretty gloomy in there towards the end... with and exciting burst of exaltation with two minutes left in OT...
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Captain Zissou on June 23, 2010, 12:29:57 PM
What a way to win!!!!

What a stressful first 91 minutes, but then just sheer bliss.  We had 4 or 5 shoula' been goals, but we did what we needed to.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on June 23, 2010, 12:34:11 PM
BT,  Sorry we didn't know you were there too.  Great to see the US come back after another lousy referee call.

With the pressure the US kept up all they needed was the little fumble by the Algerian goalie.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: BridgeTroll on June 23, 2010, 12:38:07 PM
Quote from: Dog Walker on June 23, 2010, 12:34:11 PM
BT,  Sorry we didn't know you were there too.  Great to see the US come back after another lousy referee call.

With the pressure the US kept up all they needed was the little fumble by the Algerian goalie.

I was the guy in blue shirt and khaki pants wandering in with 20 minuts to go...  The place was pretty packed!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JeffreyS on June 23, 2010, 12:48:22 PM
I thought I was going to sneek out and see some of it and wouldn't you know right at Ten one of my product brokers shows up without an appointment.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 23, 2010, 01:29:02 PM
ESPN will repaly the whole thing tonight.  Sneakers at Baymeadows and 9A was packed.  I asked the manager how many he thought they had in and he estimated 250.  Group of 16 match will be on Saturday.  We will know this afternoon who we get.

The office is a little more enjoyable after a big win and a couple of beers!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Captain Zissou on June 23, 2010, 01:37:47 PM
Saturday is going to be intense!!! Please no Germany.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Charles Hunter on June 23, 2010, 02:24:00 PM
Are the round of 16 pairings based on records, or do the FIFA Wizards do whatever match-ups they want?
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Lucasjj on June 23, 2010, 03:05:29 PM
It is setup by groups. The winner of each group plays a runner up from another. It is paired as follows:

Winner A - Runner Up B; Winner C - Runner Up D; Winner E - Runner Up F; Winner G - Runner Up H;
Winner B - Runner Up A; Winner D - Runner Up C; Winner F - Runner Up E; Winner H - Runner Up G;
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: 5 Points Theatre on June 23, 2010, 03:29:06 PM
We'll have the game at the theatre.  Admission will be free, as always!

USA vs. England was a blast.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JeffreyS on June 23, 2010, 03:56:35 PM
So if Germany wins today today it is USA v Ghana if Germany Loses it is USA v Germany.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 23, 2010, 03:59:37 PM
No.

If Germany wins, it's Germany v. England.

If Germany ties nil-nil and Serbia loses, it's Germany v. England.

If both games tie, it's Germany v. US.

If Germany loses, they're out.

Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JeffreyS on June 23, 2010, 04:01:48 PM
Thanks.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 23, 2010, 04:03:59 PM
Actually, if Germany ties, it would be Germany v. England even if Serbia loses or ties.

...and if Ghana ties this game up now that Australia is winning their game, then it will be Germany v. U.S.

Then there's the Australia wins by 5+ goals scenario....


How about we leave it at complicated.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 23, 2010, 04:21:15 PM
So it will be Germany v. England and U.S. v. Ghana in the round of 16.


Time for a little revenge for eliminating the US in 2006.   ;D
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Captain Zissou on June 23, 2010, 04:27:12 PM
Excitement!  The German goal was a piece of cake.  Australia vs Serbia game really picked up steam at the end.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 23, 2010, 06:21:07 PM
I have been able to watch every match, until today >:(.

As long as we got the win. :)

And what a frikken win! There is no more exciting way to win than at the last minute.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Charles Hunter on June 23, 2010, 10:04:54 PM
buckethead - you are forbidden from watching any future USA matches  :D
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 24, 2010, 07:28:33 AM
This world cup has turned out like ww2! The french surrendered early, the English are left to fight the Germans and the USA arrive last min!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 24, 2010, 07:30:19 AM
Quote from: Charles Hunter on June 23, 2010, 10:04:54 PM
buckethead - you are forbidden from watching any future USA matches  :D
If that's what it takes!

I'd rather read about the win than watch the loss!   :)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on June 24, 2010, 10:17:45 AM
Saturday at the 5 Points!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 24, 2010, 10:56:41 AM
We'll be at Sneakers at Baymeadows and 9A again, then heading over to UNF for the Axemen vs Aston Bulls at 5:00.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Captain Zissou on June 24, 2010, 11:01:33 AM
I'm leaning towards 5 points.  I watched USA v England at Kickbacks, which was a blast.  I would encourage anyone looking for a casual viewing experience with great food to try that.  I'd really like to watch this game in a bigger venue with bigger crowds, so 5 points theater it is.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Lucasjj on June 24, 2010, 11:08:50 AM
I think that is where me and my fiance are going to watch it. I have seen several movies there, but never one of their sporting broadcasts, so I am looking forward to it.

5 Points - What time are the festivities starting? Match is at 2:30 so when do the dooors open for it?
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 24, 2010, 12:07:10 PM
Off to taunt my Azzurri-fan sister ...

And to think, this time 4 years ago she was asked politely in the BA lounge if she could change out of her Italy jersey before boarding her flight home from school to spare the flight crew all footie fan antics.  ;D
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dapperdan on June 24, 2010, 12:26:25 PM
Does anyone know what chanel is airing the USA - Ghana match on Saturday? IS it ABC and does it start at 230PM?
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 24, 2010, 12:35:00 PM
2:30 pm on ABC and Univision
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: 5 Points Theatre on June 24, 2010, 12:52:24 PM
Doors will definitely be open by 2 pm. 

Or you can come for E.T. at 11 and just stay.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 24, 2010, 08:19:55 PM
Several players have commented that this video brought tears to their eyes today.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbn3rOPmR9w (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbn3rOPmR9w)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Bostech on June 26, 2010, 11:46:20 AM
Every country celebrates victories of their team but only in US does that turn into Hoolywood blockbuster with dramatic music and slow motion showthisfromeverysingleangle 1000 times while in background flag is flown and patriotic music is played and screaming How great we are as nation while ENTIRE world is amazed.And I mean ENTIRE world.

First moment USA team looses,those very same people will say "Well soccer is lame anyway",suddenely they are not patriotic anymore,heck they dont even understand rules of games and "get it" why is it played.


It's not love of sport or country but braging right How big your pee-pee might...as long you are winning.


Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 26, 2010, 12:15:48 PM
Or, Bos, some of think said videos are kind of hokey and really enjoy soccer. (By the way, they're a fixture everywhere, it's not just a US thing -- check YouTube for England, Brazil,Spain, etc. videos; there are hundreds.)

I'm a life-long soccer fan but I'm thrilled that many of my friends here are getting into the World Cup this year. They may not like the concept of stoppage time, or understand why I'd rather be glued to an EPL than an NFL game any day of the week, but their contribution of crowd energy makes this the most enjoyable Cup I've watched stateside. (Alas, I was in France in '94 when the US hosted, but I hear that was fun!). I usually don't get to talk footie over beers here in JAX, so I'll take any and all fans now! Maybe some will stick around for club play...



Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Cricket on June 26, 2010, 12:24:59 PM
Americans are beginning to understand that soccer is not the lame sissy game they thought it was. For instance, soccer is a more exciting and bloody game than baseball and lacks the protective gear of our own football.

Definitely not a lame game.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Bostech on June 26, 2010, 12:34:52 PM
LOL,same story was told when World cup was in USA...soccer will take off and Americans would follow it.It turns out it only lasted few months and then back to regular programming.
Same now,as soon US team looses,love for soccer will disapear.

Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Cricket on June 26, 2010, 12:52:24 PM
There may not be room in the American psyche for another national sport since we dominate in so many others.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Lucasjj on June 26, 2010, 02:07:56 PM
Goof crowd so far at the Five Points Theatre. This is going to be awesome! Go USA!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Bostech on June 26, 2010, 05:02:17 PM
Americans loosing interest in soccer in ....3,2,1.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Lucasjj on June 26, 2010, 05:09:54 PM
This forum losing interest in what you say...along time ago.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 26, 2010, 05:50:03 PM
5pts crowd had good energy, that's for sure! I would have preferred if the very loud person sitting near me had any clue bout the rules of the game-every time someone hit the ground it was deemed cardworthy (contact with the ball notwithstanding), everyone should have taken someone else out in or near the box (PKs and red cards be damned, apparently), and cries of offside were invoked with hopeless abandon. ;)


The outcome was disappointing, indeed. Sadly, US were undone by failure to make good of several shots-on-goal and poor coaching decisions. I'll never understand what Bradley sees in Clark and Findley as starting XI.


...and so this leaves Three Lions as the JBD household's only hope this WC.

Stick around for club play everyone, especially if Donovan finally ends up going to EPL. Get those Everton jerseys and Fox Soccer subscriptions (a cheap $5/month) ready. ...Or you can cheer for Fulham because Dempsey really is a better player. :)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Bostech on June 26, 2010, 05:52:20 PM
Quote from: Cricket on June 26, 2010, 12:52:24 PM
There may not be room in the American psyche for another national sport since we dominate in so many others.

I am sure there is place for soccer between cricket and ultimate hot dog eating.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: ProjectMaximus on June 26, 2010, 07:36:37 PM
Quote from: Cricket on June 26, 2010, 12:52:24 PM
There may not be room in the American psyche for another national sport since we dominate in so many others.

Well, that may change since we no longer dominate baseball or basketball the way we once did. The rest of the world is catching up in other sports just as we've made strides in soccer.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: ProjectMaximus on June 26, 2010, 07:39:37 PM
Quote from: JaxByDefault on June 26, 2010, 05:50:03 PM
The outcome was disappointing, indeed. Sadly, US were undone by failure to make good of several shots-on-goal and poor coaching decisions. I'll never understand what Bradley sees in Clark and Findley as starting XI.

Yeah! I was screaming about that same thing. Clark isn't horrible, but he was the cause of the early goals against England and Ghana. And Findley hasn't done a single thing besides open up space with his speed. And once defenders realize he can't do anything with the ball he's really not that effective at stretching the defense either.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: ProjectMaximus on June 26, 2010, 07:46:41 PM
Quote from: Bostech on June 26, 2010, 05:02:17 PM
Americans loosing interest in soccer in ....3,2,1.

*sigh* I am a huge sports fan and will be able to move on from this by making NFL predictions, discussing NBA free agency, watching the Rays and Astros play, seeing if Federer makes history at Wimbledon, etc. But without question, the World Cup Finals are my favorite sporting event ever. And I can't deny that for the last two years, at least once a week I've thought to myself...man, I can't wait for the World Cup in South Africa. Ugh...I can't believe it's gonna be another four years, torturing myself through qualifying as the anticipation builds for Brazil...

Good run, guys. I am proud of this squad and I really never gave up hope until the final whistle. Somehow I thought we'd be treated to yet another miracle.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 26, 2010, 09:02:46 PM
Standing room only at Sneakers.  It was a great run.  Now we will have to wait until 2011 for qualifiers to sart again.  I am starting t save my money up to go to as many hoe qualifiers as I can as well as the away qualifier in Mexico City again.  If I ave any cash left over we can go to Brazil.

BTW.... The Dutch will win the whole thing.  Hup Holland Hup!!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 26, 2010, 09:12:48 PM
Quote from: buckethead on June 24, 2010, 07:30:19 AM
Quote from: Charles Hunter on June 23, 2010, 10:04:54 PM
buckethead - you are forbidden from watching any future USA matches  :D
If that's what it takes!

I'd rather read about the win than watch the loss!   :)

My bad... I couldn't help watching.

I accept full responsibility for the loss.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 26, 2010, 10:35:30 PM
Bucket, please only watch tomorrow's game if you're cheering for Germany.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 26, 2010, 10:56:18 PM
Quote from: JaxByDefault on June 26, 2010, 10:35:30 PM
Bucket, please only watch tomorrow's game if you're cheering for Germany.

I beg to differ.  Only watch if you are cheering for Engerlund!!!!!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 26, 2010, 11:14:28 PM
I can see this means war, danno. Now I must weigh my desire for an extensive ash cloud delay refund from BA with my desire to defend the (usually worthy) Lions. ;)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Coolyfett on June 27, 2010, 03:26:03 AM
I ate like 3 Watermelons by myself today!! Now Im a lil sick
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 27, 2010, 07:47:59 AM
Quote from: JaxByDefault on June 26, 2010, 11:14:28 PM
I can see this means war, danno. Now I must weigh my desire for an extensive ash cloud delay refund from BA with my desire to defend the (usually worthy) Lions. ;)


England always seems to play with a chip on their shoulder.  Also if England looses it will lessen the amount of grief I will get back at the office on Monday!

On a side note of you are having a problem with an Ash refund, win or loose, PM me and I can chase it up with our refunds dept when I am back in the office.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Bostech on June 27, 2010, 10:08:16 AM
Quote from: Coolyfett on June 27, 2010, 03:26:03 AM
I ate like 3 Watermelons by myself today!! Now Im a lil sick
Thhere is a guy on Beach blvd selling 25-30lbs melons,try eat those.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Bostech on June 27, 2010, 10:09:03 AM
Now Serbia and United States have something in common,they were both beaten by Ghana.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 27, 2010, 11:35:07 AM
Quote from: Bostech on June 27, 2010, 10:09:03 AM
Now Serbia and United States have something in common,they were both beaten by Ghana.
That and the desire to replace socialism with fascism... ::)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on June 27, 2010, 11:36:08 AM
Quote from: danno on June 26, 2010, 10:56:18 PM
Quote from: JaxByDefault on June 26, 2010, 10:35:30 PM
Bucket, please only watch tomorrow's game if you're cheering for Germany.

I beg to differ.  Only watch if you are cheering for Engerlund!!!!!
Mission accomplished!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Bostech on June 27, 2010, 11:54:58 AM
Quote from: buckethead on June 27, 2010, 11:35:07 AM
Quote from: Bostech on June 27, 2010, 10:09:03 AM
Now Serbia and United States have something in common,they were both beaten by Ghana.
That and the desire to replace socialism with fascism... ::)

Well,that too.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Bostech on June 27, 2010, 11:55:30 AM
There goes England.Can't win against Germans for life.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 27, 2010, 12:17:37 PM
<JBD takes down and folds England National flag, puts it back into cabinet with supporter scarves and team flags for a while.>

That's it for WC as a fan. I'm just a spectator now.

Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on June 27, 2010, 03:28:18 PM
England played like a bunch of old, fat men.  The Germans were quick, coordinated and ran circles around them.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on June 29, 2010, 12:11:40 PM
Didn't think Japan-Paraguay would go to extra time.

Should be a great match up this afternoon -- as good as any final, really.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on June 29, 2010, 01:00:05 PM
With the US team eliminated, I must turn my allegiance to Portugal. My ancestors that immigrated here 100 years ago from Madeira would require me to.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on June 29, 2010, 01:26:20 PM
Hup Holland Hup!  Should be a great match up against Brazil.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: CityHallPub on June 30, 2010, 11:12:45 AM
City Hall Pub!

Check out the games on our 125" Projector Screen, and 16 HDTVs, including 8 BIG screens!

(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs282.snc3/27759_116562665044781_100000731448953_142702_2837347_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Ethylene on June 30, 2010, 11:24:57 AM
Quote from: CityHallPub on June 30, 2010, 11:12:45 AM
City Hall Pub!

Check out the games on our 125" Projector Screen, and 16 HDTVs, including 8 BIG screens!

(http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs282.snc3/27759_116562665044781_100000731448953_142702_2837347_n.jpg)

I did, but the projector screen was not up and running.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on June 30, 2010, 11:28:08 AM
Quote from: copperfiend on June 29, 2010, 01:00:05 PM
With the US team eliminated, I must turn my allegiance to Portugal. My ancestors that immigrated here 100 years ago from Madeira would require me to.

Well...nevermind.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: BridgeTroll on June 30, 2010, 11:38:13 AM
QuoteCity Hall Pub!

Check out the games on our 125" Projector Screen, and 16 HDTVs, including 8 BIG screens!

I was there at the end of USA/Ghana.  We were "prepping" for the Sharks game.  One waiter and one waitress.  Never did one stop by... bought one beer at the bar and left...
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on July 02, 2010, 11:33:04 AM
Danno must be doing backflips!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on July 02, 2010, 12:12:39 PM
Wow! Shocking.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on July 02, 2010, 12:18:38 PM
HUP HOLLAND HUP!!!!!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JclgB4_k2g (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JclgB4_k2g)
They will win the whole thing.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: BridgeTroll on July 03, 2010, 10:24:24 AM
Team USA does not look to be in the same class as the Argentinians and Germans...
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on July 03, 2010, 12:23:57 PM
Quote from: BridgeTroll on July 03, 2010, 10:24:24 AM
Team USA does not look to be in the same class as the Argentinians and Germans...

The Argentinians arent in the same class as the Germans either!!!!!!

LOL
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: BridgeTroll on July 03, 2010, 12:56:59 PM
True...Wow! :o
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on July 03, 2010, 01:02:24 PM
If Spain makes it through this afternoon, Spain vs Germany will be interesting.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on July 06, 2010, 11:39:17 AM
Today is the day.

HUP HOLLAND HUP!!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JclgB4_k2g
They will win the whole thing.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on July 11, 2010, 01:47:51 PM
Should be a good game -- a traditionally skilled side against an explosively creative side.

Spain's starting 11 are strong and any team where Torres and Fabregas sit on the bench is stunningly stacked. That said, it's so fun to watch Sneijder and Robben pick apart an opposing midfield.

I'm torn, but I think Spain will take this one. Either way, one national side earns its first star, which is cool.


Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: BridgeTroll on July 11, 2010, 02:07:31 PM
I hope todays match is as good as the Germany v Uruguay game
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on July 11, 2010, 03:24:57 PM
Slow first half.... second will hopefuly be better!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on July 11, 2010, 04:29:40 PM
Additional 30!

Will it come to a penalty kick showdown?
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: reednavy on July 11, 2010, 04:38:40 PM
would somebody, I want the Dutch, score already?!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Cricket on July 11, 2010, 04:52:00 PM
Satellite down. Bad weather. Right at the end. What a bummer!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on July 11, 2010, 05:05:18 PM
I am GUTTED!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on July 11, 2010, 05:05:53 PM
Sorry about your Oranje, Danno.

Not a lovely game, more a slugfest.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on July 11, 2010, 05:06:32 PM
They didn't deserve it.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on July 11, 2010, 05:10:31 PM
Two prime chances for the Dutch... Blown. >:(

Ah well... Felicitaciones, España!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on July 11, 2010, 05:16:16 PM
Oh God, now for the footie doldrums until EPL starts August 14.

...nooooooooooooooo!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: buckethead on July 11, 2010, 05:24:04 PM
(http://media.bonnint.net/apimage/098cf3bc-74a5-4e9a-80e7-c0536d8592f3.jpg)
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on July 11, 2010, 05:32:57 PM
^Leave it to a crazed Barca fan to keep trying this stunt.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on July 12, 2010, 08:24:08 AM
Great crowd at the 5 Points Theater.  About 60/40 Spain/Netherlands fans.  One of the Oranje fans had just returned from South Africa and had brought a couple of real vuvuzelas with her.  She had attended several games in a couple of different cities in South Africa and was really complimentary about the facilities and the warmth of the South Africans.

Game was ugly.  I was rooting for the Dutch, but lost enthusiasm for them as they kept kicking their opponents instead of the ball.  Spain's play was just beautiful.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on July 12, 2010, 09:09:59 AM
The final was a bit of a letdown in terms of quality of play. But I thought overall, this World Cup was the closest in terms on talent that I have ever seen.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dapperdan on July 12, 2010, 09:38:18 AM
Thank goodness this thing is over. I really tried this year to enjoy soccer, but I can't. I can't enjoy a  game that ends with 1-0. To me, it seems like the luckier team wins, not the better team. Its a crap shoot. I may try again in 4 years, but this World Cup left me disliking soccer even more. Sorry if that offends anyone, but I hated it.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on July 12, 2010, 10:21:30 AM
Funny, I find basketball boring for exactly the opposite reason.  Score 148-144?  Yawn.  Run, shoot, score; run, shoot, score.......repeat ad nauseum.

To each their own.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Sportmotor on July 12, 2010, 10:43:53 AM
Quote from: Dog Walker on July 12, 2010, 10:21:30 AM
Funny, I find basketball boring for exactly the opposite reason.  Score 148-144?  Yawn.  Run, shoot, score; run, shoot, score.......repeat ad nauseum.

To each their own.

I agree with this.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dapperdan on July 12, 2010, 11:02:47 AM
Quote from: Dog Walker on July 12, 2010, 10:21:30 AM
Funny, I find basketball boring for exactly the opposite reason.  Score 148-144?  Yawn.  Run, shoot, score; run, shoot, score.......repeat ad nauseum.

To each their own.

So in soccer, it is pass, pass, pass, run, get ball stolen, run back on defense, steal ball back, pass, pass, pass. Shoot at goal, go way over goal. Have goalie pass ball back out. Repeat this process for 2 hours and "hope" that you get lucky and get a  shot off and it is not 20 feet over or to either side of goal. Don't get me started on extra time. Just stop the game like every other sport if there is an injury, etc. No one ever knows when the game will end. I would much rather watch American football, basketball, baseball or even rugby.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: RockStar on July 12, 2010, 11:04:30 AM
That's why American football is the best sport.

* A proper amount of scoring.
* Like chess, the next play depends on the result of the one prior.
* When a player goes down and grabs his leg, he doesn't usually get back on it for 6-8 weeks. The only occasional flop you might see is from a QB trying to steal a call.

I enjoy soccer (I went to the World Cup in France in '98), but I've never been made so keenly aware of how often those guys flop and bitch. I mean, when the primary medical tool is a spray anesthetic, I call crybaby.

And honestly, no score til the 117th minute, isn't a great soccer match either. Even the announcers called it a pig of a game. Let's not be delusional and call that a great final. Besides, once again the refs had too much impact. Had they not red carded that Dutch defenseman (sorry, forget his name), Spain probably doesn't get that goal and instead it would've come down to PK's. I think I saw them yellow card a fan in the stands for illegal use of his vuvuzela...lol.

Just sayin is all...
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on July 12, 2010, 11:17:34 AM
Quote from: Dapperdan on July 12, 2010, 11:02:47 AM
Quote from: Dog Walker on July 12, 2010, 10:21:30 AM
Funny, I find basketball boring for exactly the opposite reason.  Score 148-144?  Yawn.  Run, shoot, score; run, shoot, score.......repeat ad nauseum.

To each their own.

So in soccer, it is pass, pass, pass, run, get ball stolen, run back on defense, steal ball back, pass, pass, pass. Shoot at goal, go way over goal. Have goalie pass ball back out. Repeat this process for 2 hours and "hope" that you get lucky and get a  shot off and it is not 20 feet over or to either side of goal. Don't get me started on extra time. Just stop the game like every other sport if there is an injury, etc. No one ever knows when the game will end. I would much rather watch American football, basketball, baseball or even rugby.

The international governing body over the world's most popular sport is not going to change the injury time rule to satisfy Americans with little to no interest in the sport. I don't run into too many actual soccer fans that have a hard time with the injury time.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JC on July 12, 2010, 11:42:19 AM
Quote from: RockStar on July 12, 2010, 11:04:30 AM
That's why American football is the best sport.

* A proper amount of scoring.
* Like chess, the next play depends on the result of the one prior.
* When a player goes down and grabs his leg, he doesn't usually get back on it for 6-8 weeks. The only occasional flop you might see is from a QB trying to steal a call.

I enjoy soccer (I went to the World Cup in France in '98), but I've never been made so keenly aware of how often those guys flop and bitch. I mean, when the primary medical tool is a spray anesthetic, I call crybaby.

And honestly, no score til the 117th minute, isn't a great soccer match either. Even the announcers called it a pig of a game. Let's not be delusional and call that a great final. Besides, once again the refs had too much impact. Had they not red carded that Dutch defenseman (sorry, forget his name), Spain probably doesn't get that goal and instead it would've come down to PK's. I think I saw them yellow card a fan in the stands for illegal use of his vuvuzela...lol.

Just sayin is all...


I agree that the subjective nature of sports officiating can be a real bummer.  But arguing that American Football is better is just arguing your opinion which... well you know what they say about opinions, anyway. 

1.  There have been big games in all sports that have been blown by officials!
2.  Not everyone needs the instant gratification of constant scoring!  I love watching a low scoring game, be it baseball, soccer or hockey, its just the nature of those games. 
3.  The announcers called it a pig but again, opinion, simple fact was that both defenses played good football, especially in the midfield. 
4.  Flops are a problem but no one does it like Italians, thank goodness they weren't in it! 

Anyway, if you don't like the sport than don't watch it!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on July 12, 2010, 11:55:24 AM
Quote from: RockStar on July 12, 2010, 11:04:30 AM
That's why American football is the best sport.

* A proper amount of scoring.
* Like chess, the next play depends on the result of the one prior.
* When a player goes down and grabs his leg, he doesn't usually get back on it for 6-8 weeks. The only occasional flop you might see is from a QB trying to steal a call.

I enjoy soccer (I went to the World Cup in France in '98), but I've never been made so keenly aware of how often those guys flop and bitch. I mean, when the primary medical tool is a spray anesthetic, I call crybaby.

And honestly, no score til the 117th minute, isn't a great soccer match either. Even the announcers called it a pig of a game. Let's not be delusional and call that a great final. Besides, once again the refs had too much impact. Had they not red carded that Dutch defenseman (sorry, forget his name), Spain probably doesn't get that goal and instead it would've come down to PK's. I think I saw them yellow card a fan in the stands for illegal use of his vuvuzela...lol.

Just sayin is all...


No score until the 117th minute often means it's a great match -- this WC final aside. It's slower than usual pace had more to do with a high percentage of fouls which were a drag on the game.

When I'm deep into the EPL season, American football becomes really slow and rather difficult to watch -- and I like American football.  Rest time between plays? Umpteen commercial breaks? Pass, Pass, run, run, score, repeat.

As for diving...well, some teams and leagues are more prone to that than others. There are also a few players who have developed a reputation for turf inspection and acting skills. Kind of like there are a few NFL players who have developed a similar rep for field antics. I prefer the game to be, as its nickname connotes, beautiful. My loathing of certain teams is directly proportional to their turf time.

Also, if you haven't taken a running slide tackle, jumped up for an in-box header, repeatedly thrown yourself around as a goalie, or been in a goalie-striker collision (all without padding) then you probably don't have a good appreciation of how physical soccer is. It's not rugby, but it's a lot of running and more physical contact than comes through on TV.

Stoppage time is just something to get used to, though I still don't understand why it bothers a few people. I personally like it because it makes teams play end-game tactics for longer and not just hold out for a determinate end point.

Lastly, if you think that a series of plays aren't highly connected in soccer, well, you need to watch  more soccer and understand the game better. There are just as many plays as in football, if not more, only you don't get to conference with the coach and your teammates about which one you're going to use each time.

So you don't like it, fine. I just don't get why every time soccer fans rear their heads in the US someone has to pound into the conversation why they think soccer is boring, European, not tough, etc. Ireland and Australia have national-rules football, too, and yet they manage to support (or in the very least tolerate) soccer, too.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: RockStar on July 12, 2010, 01:09:13 PM
For the record, I didn't say that soccer is boring. I've watched plenty of soccer, much of this World Cup, and certainly enough to know that this final, with the score in the 117th min had only a handful of tense moments; there were qualifiers that were more exciting. If the game were 3-3 going into ET, I might've felt different, but alas...

You're right about soccer not being rugby. I know soccer is physical, but too many of those guys fall and cry when the wind blows wrong...it was epidemic at this Cup.

Never had a problem with stoppage time, it's part of the game. Lack of instant replay on disallowed goals however is just dumb, though. Argue that.

I think that after this Cup, soccer's popularity will continue to rise at a higher pace.

Imagine if we'd gotten past Ghana....
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: civil42806 on July 12, 2010, 02:30:10 PM
Well we can go back to ignoring soccer again until the next world cup. 

"I think that after this Cup, soccer's popularity will continue to rise at a higher pace."

Been hearing that for 30 years, will wait and see but I doubt its going to break into the big 4(football, baseball, basketball, hockey) in my lifetime
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: copperfiend on July 12, 2010, 02:34:28 PM
People care about hockey?
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on July 12, 2010, 02:59:22 PM
Major Leauge Soccer does better than some NBA and NHL teams in regards to attendance.
2010 average is ar 16,627, up from 15,144 in 2009.  Here are some averages by team.

Seattle 36,139
Philly 23,961
LA 20,687
Toronto 20,588
Salt Lake 16,277
New York 16,276
Houston 16,003
Chicago 14,778
DC 14,734
Chivas USA (LA) 14,450
Columbus 14,367
Colorado 13,716
New England 11,796
Dallas 11,239
KC 10,005
San Jose 9,515
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on July 12, 2010, 04:54:38 PM
Quote from: RockStar on July 12, 2010, 01:09:13 PM

Lack of instant replay on disallowed goals however is just dumb, though. Argue that.

I don't know if I'd want instant replay, but goal line technology -- or at least goal linesmen-- would be nice.

I kind of enjoy the culture of soccer where a ref's decision stands, a team grouses, rivalries are born, and legends that fuel teams for years are created. Most of the time, even after a completely botched call, the best team carries the match anyway. Instant replay with it's attendant coach's challenges, pestering players, and delays would annoy me in a soccer match as much as rampant diving.

As an England National fan, I can attest that we thrive on a diet of bitter disappointment that magically converts into hopeless overconfidence and inflated expectations about 2 months before any major international tournament. The Goal-that-Wasn't will likely fuel England fans well into Euro Cup (and yes, the better side won that match, too, in the end).

Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on July 12, 2010, 05:11:56 PM


QuoteAs an England National fan, I can attest that we thrive on a diet of bitter disappointment that magically converts into hopeless overconfidence and inflated expectations about 2 months before any major international tournament. The Goal-that-Wasn't will likely fuel England fans well into Euro Cup (and yes, the better side won that match, too, in the end).



Ahhhhh... I reminds me of Euro 96...... "It's comming home, it's coming...... Footballs coming home."
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on July 12, 2010, 05:35:25 PM
^ I'd take '96 over 2006 any day! The double heartbreak of watching England fall on PKs in the semis was somewhat offset by the start of a long love of watching Zizu play.   

Before the WC, I was thinking that Messi might step up to fill that role, alas not yet. 
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Cricket on July 12, 2010, 05:47:45 PM
American arrogance doesn't allow us to embrace too many games that are not homegrown. For this reason I don't see football (soccer) getting much of a foothold (pun intended) in this country.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on July 12, 2010, 05:48:26 PM
Maybe it would spice the game up some and raise the scores if they made the goal a little wider?
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on July 12, 2010, 05:49:27 PM
And I've never understood why American football isn't called Carryball.  Handball is already taken!  LOL!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on July 12, 2010, 05:53:46 PM
Quote from: Dog Walker on July 12, 2010, 05:48:26 PM
Maybe it would spice the game up some and raise the scores if they made the goal a little wider?

As a former goalie, I will have nightmares about this proposal. Nightmares, I tell you. ;)

Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on July 12, 2010, 05:59:03 PM
But I bet Tim Howard could cover it anyway!  My favorite time of the WC was watching him.  He had to be the best keeper of all the teams.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Cricket on July 12, 2010, 06:00:31 PM
All goalies should be no less than 7 feet tall.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Cricket on July 12, 2010, 06:02:20 PM
Quote from: Dog Walker on July 12, 2010, 05:49:27 PM
And I've never understood why American football isn't called Carryball.  Handball is already taken!  LOL!
Even Carryball would be a misnomer. A ball is supposed to have a spherical shape. ;D
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: Dog Walker on July 12, 2010, 06:03:42 PM
Carrybladder?  ROFLMAO!
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on July 12, 2010, 06:12:43 PM
Rugby is a nice blend of the 2 sports.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on July 12, 2010, 06:21:05 PM
Quote from: Dog Walker on July 12, 2010, 05:59:03 PM
But I bet Tim Howard could cover it anyway!  My favorite time of the WC was watching him.  He had to be the best keeper of all the teams.

Tim Howard could handle it, as could van der Sar, Cech, Reina, and depending on whether the brilliant or merely solid version shows up probably Casillas.

Lionel Messi would have about 70 more goals a season as he seems to hit the post more than any other player (followed closely by Torres and Dempsey).

Tim Howard is an absolutely exceptional goalie and I do love how an American player has one of the best supporter chants in English football -- and loves it. (If you're going to look it up, like all chants, NSFW / NSFK.)

QuoteRugby is a nice blend of the 2 sports.
Rugby is its own awesome beast. I'm making it a priority to get to some Axemen games this season.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: danno on July 12, 2010, 06:31:38 PM
^They play a short season... There is only one regular season game left at home (17JUL).  There should be at least one play off game, maybe two if we remain the top seeded team, which they should.  They put out a great product and they make it easy for Rugby novices to understand.  Also you can't beat $5.00 to get in and $1.00 beers.
Title: Re: Best place to watch soccer
Post by: JaxByDefault on July 12, 2010, 07:17:46 PM
Thanks for the info, Danno. That is a short season -- I'll try to make that July 17 game. I need to catch up on the contest for possession differences with league, but my Dad played what used to be Pan-Am Union back in the day and I've always liked rugby. Jax is the first place I've lived in a long while that had a team and even games on cable are an infrequent treat.