Expat Life Tourist Attractions

First Live Premier League Game

If you follow me on instagram you’ll see that I attended my first premier league game on Monday night. Sunderland vs Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. (The Crystal Palace grounds.) Now why that game of all games? One, Sam is an insane Sunderland fan. I’ve never seen him lose his cool like he does when watching them play. Two, Selhurst is within walking distance of our flat so there was no excuse, really.

Thoughts I had while attending my first premier league game:
stadium

Upon entering: Holy cow, I am going to be crushed to death by people.

At the first goal: Sunderland scored? Really?! Oh my god, why do all these strangers want to hug me? Put me down Sam! Duck that elbow, self! (To be honest victory seemed almost as dangerous as losing.)sunderland scarf

During some strange cheers: Sunderland seems to have some kind of strange coordinated dance-esque movement the fans do. It seems to involve flying like an angel but I might be totally wrong about that. I definitely approve of so many grownups engaging in rhythmic movement though.

celebrating

After half time: Okay, this is one of my biggest gripes. Maybe I’m just used to going to the theatre or seeing movies and whatnot but there was no drama to segue from halftime into playing again. All the sudden the players were just on the field again. I know there can’t be any dimming of lights or anything, but how about some music? An announcement? Something? Anything?

playing 2
Looking for snacks and then- bam! Playing again!

Any time there was a “bad” call from a referee: I’ve never heard so much foul language in my life. The grand total of the amount of times I’ve heard the c-word used in public has now quadrupled. Is that a little kid flipping off the opposing teams fans?!

Upon leaving: This is how I am going to die. Crushed to death by cheering Sunderland fans. Dear Selhurst Park, I know you’re trying to prevent opposing fans from fighting in the street by filtering the exit, but having just one gate open seemed like either a fire hazard or a trampling hazard.

Would I go again? Yes, I probably would but shhh….! Don’t tell Sam!

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