SPORTS> Off the Pitch
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SPORTS> Off the Pitch
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Asia pubs geared for World Cup frenzy
(news24.com)
Updated: 2006-06-01 16:58 Singapore - Asia is buzzing with World Cup fever and nowhere more than in pubs and clubs, which are poised for a bonanza from hordes of football fans watching the games, drink in hand, on big screen TVs. The excitement has not escaped staid Singapore, where nightlife venues in the tiny island-state are extending opening hours and ramping up promotions to ensure punters stay around to watch all the goals throughout the night. "We are showing all the games at Penny Black's and Muddy Murphy's and we definitely expect quite a crowd," said Amy Williams, marketing manager for Gaelic Inns which runs several European-style watering holes. "We upgraded our TVs to plasmas to get the best possible sound and best possible viewing," she added. Popular dance club Devils Bar will up the ante by enticing fans with '3-for-1' drink promotions while employing cheerleaders to keep the party going, said marketing manager Daryl Teo. Across the region, similar preparations are under way, with matches in Asia broadcast live in the late evening or early hours of the morning. Seoul city government officials said about 100 000 fans are expected to turn out in three big-screen TV locations in Seoul for the three South Korean group games. Numbers could swell if Korea reaches the second round. "Due to late night games, many people will watch at home. But we think the number of people in the streets will surge quickly if South Korea qualifies for the round of 16," said one official. |
