COME. On. You. Boys in green, come on you boys in green etc.
For a lot of people, the soccer pretty much overshadows everything this weekend.
That’s saying something, considering our rugby lads have a chance to create history by beating the Springboks – for the second time in a fortnight – on Saturday evening.
But it’s the first time the soccer boys have got out of the group stages of a major tournament since 2002, so you can be assured the entire nation will be glued to the match in Lyon at 2pm on Sunday.
While many will stay at home to watch it in peace, the pubs are sure to be packed with fans decked out in green looking for an atmosphere to view the action.
Here’s just a few traditional soccer pubs in town who can’t wait to host fans for the game…
1. The Huddle Bar
A true soccer pub, it’s where this writer watched Wednesday night’s bedlam unfold. If it’s singing, shouting and a terrace-like atmosphere you’re after, you’ll be in the right place.
The over-excited young fellas were jumping and dancing on the tables well before the final whistle against the Italians, annoyingly blocking the view of the big screen. Luckily there’s about 10 more TVs to see it.
2. The Greyhound Bar
Another bar where you would have found more room in a can of sardines than on Wednesday night, you can be sure it’ll be just as packed on Sunday. Always popular for Premiership games, where the slagging between rival fans is legendary, make sure you wear green for the party atmosphere.
3. Paddy Macs
The place went bananas when Robbie Brady scored against the Italians and the relatively small pub always ensures a great atmosphere. Get there early if you want a seat though and don’t forget your inflatable green hammer!
4. The Castle Bar
This iconic Rock Street bar will welcome a slightly older – but no less vocal – crowd of soccer fans on Sunday. Expect the place to be rocking by kick-off and even more boisterous by 4pm…we hope!
5. The Blasket
I watched Toto Schillaci break our Irish hearts in The Blasket 26 years ago at Italia 90 and it’s still popular these days with soccer fans. Normally busier later on that night, it’ll be open early to welcome green-clad fans.
• Other places where the atmosphere will be electric is Turner’s, Bailys and Hennessy’s while if you want to have a bit of Sunday lunch while you watch the action, head to The Brogue, The Ashe Hotel, The Abbey Inn or Stoker’s Lodge.
