Despite arriving at the Landing an hour and a half early, I wasnt able to get in. I waited outside in the rain for about 45 minutes in my AO gear during which time the line never moved. I ended up at the Asgard after being told Tavern on the Square and other bars in Central were also at capacity. The Asgard was decent. Fairly good crowd (75%US, 25% England), but the establishment was not prepared for the crowd. I believe there was one bartender tending to the needs of several hundred thirsty people, and the bouncer at the door had a line queued until after halftime. The bar was full, but it is a large building and could have easily accomodated another hundred fans. I understand AO Boston's position that they only want to recommend Phoenix Landing and the Banshee because of the loyalty that those establishments displayed during qualifying- but I truly believe that AO Boston should consider adding another official bar during the WC. There were so many fans (including quite a few American Outlaws members that I was standing with or passed on the street) who were not able to get into Phoenix Landing and would have really liked the opportunity to celebrate and enjoy the game together. Facilitating interaction amongst die-hard fans like the Outlaws and people excited about the WC and the USMNT is how AO's passionate fanbase will grow. By exposing the more casual soccer fanbase in the United States to the excitement of being around passionate supporters, we can all help this sport continue its growth. I believe that it is in the best interest of the members of AO Boston to have an additional location (or at least an officially designated "overflow" bar) where people who can't arrive five hours prior to match time can gather and enjoy the game, the comeraderie, and the atmosphere that this is all about.
We're talking about it but it would probably only work for the Landing because the bar across the street from the Banshee sucks. Next time text or call one of us and we'll get you in. PM me and I'll give you my phone number. Sorry about what happened.
As I mentioned, Hugh O'Neil's in Malden Center was very good. about 150 people, 147 US fans. Not best chanting/cheering atmosphere, until the goal(hopefully that will change Friday) but it was great to see another place with so much US support. I'll be there Friday with wife, sister-in-law and 12 week old son. Great place if you can't get all the way in to Boston and you live north of the city. It was crowded but not even close to capacity so you can get in there no matter what. It can only help the game of soccer in our country if more and more places are getting packed every year. PM me with any questions about Hugh's, but bottom line is you will get in.
worHow you guys enjoying the World Cup so far? Are you liking the bars we staked out? Any complaints? Compliments? Things you'd like to see done differently.
I had to leave the Landing after the Germany game because I can't do standing room only, take notes, wear a cast, and be pissed off at Jogi Loew at the same time.
Can anyone tell me how early I should arrive tomorrow at Phoenix Landing if I want to get in? What about the Banshee?
At the Banshee right now for the Ghana game. It's noon and there is still room. Come on down! Only thing is I don't feel Irish enough for this place lol.