![]() When Tottenham Hotspur played Manchester United on a gloomy Friday night in north London, united fans Michael, Michael and Gaz drove 200 miles to watch the game on an iPad opposite the stadium. Pubs and bars remained closed, strict social distancing was in place. What would the new match day look like and how far fanatical fans would go to create a match day experience?Īs project restart kicked off, lockdown restrictions were stringent. Not every fan complied, the temptation to be close to their idols, too much. Signs advised supporters to leave the area and watch from home. Police were on patrol to disperse potential groups. The advice was to stay away from football stadiums. ![]() Regular outlets for emotional release were denied. Lifetime traditions and habits suspended, maybe gone forever. When lockdown was initiated, fans were abruptly severed from their team. When fixtures are released, fans plot their route through the season with Field Marshall Montgomery precision: how will they get there, what will they wear, what will they eat and drink and with whom? Dates of matches are rapidly cross checked with work and family commitments, the relief palpable when a meeting or christening doesn't clash with a must watch derby. Fortunes have been spent following a team, lifetime grudges have developed, relationships have failed.Ī match day starts months before the alarm goes off the morning of the game. Terrfified parents pull a team shirt over their newborn in the hope they won't choose blue over red. Football undoubtedly brings out the fanatic in the fan.
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