H&H World Cup Edition

The World Cup starts on Friday. I realize that there is no real H&H story here but I know that there are some footie fans in the area so I am using that as an excuse to be self-indulgent. If you don’t like soccer/footie/futból please don’t continue on.

Here are a few webpages to bookmark.

• This webpage is awesome for giving you viewing information on all the games for the World Cup.
• Soccer Insider – Washington Post blog by soccer writer Steven Goff. He and another writer are in SA right now and sending out daily reports.
• The Dirty Tackle - Takes a much less serious view of soccer but I find entertaining. At the very least read the post on how the WC is cursed.
• ESPN has a bracket creator so that you can do a pool. I have started one called RVA World Cup. If you would like to join send me an email. There certainly wouldn’t be any money involved in my pool as that would be illegal but…..
• ATDHE.NET is likely to stream every game so you can watch during your breaks at work. H&H would never suggest that you have this running and a random spreadsheet that you can quickly click to in case a boss comes checking. ESPN, ESPN2 will have some streaming as well.

Games are always better when watched with other fans. After the break I list the venues that I know about. I am sure their are more out there but since I know where I’ll be I haven’t looked to hard, so post any others in the comments. I haven’t seen any of our local joints advertise anything special, although I imagine the TVs will be tuned to the Cup on at Maldini’s, Mexico, and Cielito Lindo but since the games start early call ahead.

• Gus’ at 2701 W. Broad St., This is the place I will be wearing a fez and a Onyeu jersey with a sizable group of friends. Decent food & prices compared to others. TVs in all the booths, open space and large screen projection TV that looked awesome for the Champion’s League Final.
• Penny Lane at 421 E Franklin St The old school RVA soccer establishment. It will likely be as you may guess by the name pro English. Haven’t been in awhile but serves a variety of beers common to the UK. Food not great. It is located downtown so for weekday games get in early during the last World Cup they were turning people away from the door. The atmosphere will be passionate.
• Bailey’s 11581 Robious Rd This one is located on the Southside. Not known as a soccer bar. However they are opening at 9am for all games will have a breakfast menu and are promising giveaways. Big TVs but carefully choose your seat because some are much better than others. Good beer selection and decent foods.
• The Republic 2053 W. Broad is boasting a 110″ screen and will be showing every match. They also are rolling out a special South African themed menu and drinks. Although this is just crazy  “The South African Creamy Delight • Vodka, Amarula, Baileys, Amaretto, Kahlua, shaken and served martini style….$6.00″ (Thanks to J for giving us the heads up on the Repbulic)