Football fever drops for second semi

Martin Baxter, Gleaner Writer

The term 'hung-over' aptly described the patrons at the Triple Century Sport Bar on Knutsford Boulevard, New Kingston, where they had gathered to witness Netherlands challenge Argentina in the second semi-final of the World Cup.

Both the game and the energy of the spectators were comparatively sober compared to the previous day's 7-1 annihilation the tournament's hosts suffered at the hands of a rampant German team that was clinical in its tactics and execution.

"Yesterday was more energetic, seeing that the Brazilians were pressing to get the win but you know that Germany is stronger, so they broke through and gave us more goals," explained 28-year-old Leon Samuels, who was sitting among a group of friends.

Twenty-year-old Roshane Andrews sat by the bar in a customised Argentina shirt bearing his initials, arms folded, looking pensive.

"Argentina playing with more purpose than Brazil. It's impressive so far, good possession football from Argentina. I like the flowing of the game."

Meanwhile at Cuddy'z Sports Bar, men, women and children gathered around a collection of flat-screen TVs and a projector while some binged on food and drinks. With a conservative football game refusing to unfold before their eyes, the major excitement came from the sporadic distribution of free beer coupons as a promotional tool by a company sponsoring the event.

"It boring, man," mumbled one man, "yesterday more lively."

A false alarm sent the crowd off into a frenzy in the 19th minute of the second half when Argentina scored a goal subsequently ruled offside; but with their backs to the screen, some embracing each other, some gloating at glum Dutch sympathisers, a brave linesman held his flag at 90 degrees - the goal would not stand.

"Di man dem rob wi!" bellowed one man, whose voice was hoarse from an afternoon of complaining about poor refereeing decisions, poor play and a seeming lack of desire from his beloved South Americans.

"The Dutch back strong," someone bravely retorted.

Extra time came and went with several clear-cut chances that were squandered by both sides. The two-hour mark was greeted by rapturous applause as both teams prepared for the ominous penalty spot.

"Dis a go mek people have heart attack," said one spectator who left the venue before the first penalty kick.

A dramatic shoot-out ensued, with the Dutch having two penalties saved by the defiant Argentinian number 1, Romero, while his outfield players successfully converted their spot kicks to book their date with destiny against the Germans in the World Cup final at the Maracana Stadium on Sunday.