Sport

Ryon Jones, Gleaner Writer

The World Cup fever swept through Cuddy'z on Wednesday as local football fans descended on the popular sports bar for the telecast of the massive semi-final clash between Spain and Germany, at the Durban Stadium, in South Africa.

With both teams having done very well coming into the game and the promise of a very entertaining and competitive match, the venue was overflowing with patrons well before the scheduled 1:30 p.m. start.

Cuddy'z was a natural choice for football supporters as the venue reflected everything football, from the replica goal at the entrance to the numerous flags inside the building. There were also numerous screens within the venue including one that transmitted in 3D.

As kick-off time drew closer, the number of football enthusiasts grew with persons in the popular commercial district taking the opportunity to have lunch as they watched the game. This resulted in a number of persons having to stand, but they did not seem to mind as they chimed in with 'oohs' and 'awes' in reaction to every moment of excitement.

Biggest cheer

The most animated debate came on the stroke of half-time, when German supporters believed Mesut Ozil should have been awarded a penalty after a coming together with Sergio Ramos in the box. The biggest cheer of the afternoon was, however, reserved for the 73rd minute when Spanish supporters erupted with delight as Carles Puyol headed Spain into their first ever World Cup final.

Peter Henry, a committed Spanish fan, believes his team reaching the final is long overdue.

"I am overwhelmed, I am so happy because they really deserve it. They have deserved it for the past 15 years or more, because they have never got to the World Cup final," said Henry. "They won the European Championship, so they deserve a world championship. It is going to be a very good final, beautiful football but I am very optimistic, not worried in the least," he added.

German fans such as Adriel McKay were left reflecting on what could have been.

"For a young team, much wasn't expected of them, it is a bit disappointing to see them go out this way in an uncharacteristic fashion," said McKay. "Losing by a 1-0 margin, it is one of those defeats that you will always play back over and over again, because you lost out by such a narrow margin," he added, before stating that he expects Germany to get some consolation by beating Uruguay for third place.

Cuddy'z general manager Jeanelle Waddell was kept busy through out the game as it was one of their most hectic days.

"Generally, throughout the World Cup the turnout has been very good because people are coming out to support their teams, although since the big teams have dropped out we were kind of worried who would be there for the final; but I believe we will have a good turnout for the final," said Waddell.