The big event at the Abel Tasman club of course was the “European Football Championship 2008”. Holland played against and beat Italy, France and Rumania in their group. Unfortunately the Club couldn’t show the first match, but was open from 4am on the respective days for the two matches being televised free to air. By then the Club had been successful in getting a sports channel installed via their BVN dish to enable showing all the remaining matches. And so Sunday 22nd June came along. Holland was to do battle against Guus Hiddink’s Russia team. Again the Club opened at 4am, even though the match didn’t start until 4.45am. But at 4 am people were waiting at the door and soon after the hall was abuzz with about 100 football loving fans. The day before the hall had been decked out in orange with balloons, small and large flags etc. And on the day there was a sea of orange hats, caps, shirts, scarf’s, jumpers. It was a delight to see and be part of. The hall was warm with good seating for all and excellent viewing of the two large screens and several TV’s. The good surround sound system made it easy for everyone to follow the commentaries. There were plenty of oooh’s and aaah’s for the exciting moments. There was appreciative applause for good play and singing and cheering throughout the match. But alas to no avail. Holland had lost to a better team on the day. The kitchen had been busy with supplying all the Dutch delicacies and the bar with the Dutch beers and other drinks. The atmosphere was “gezellig” and enjoyed by everyone. Imagine if Holland had advanced to a semi-final and final. Then there would have been even more excitement. Perhaps in two years time when the World Cup will be played again. The Club certainly lends itself to view big occasion sports events in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
