Bottoms Up: Women’s World Cup watching
Whether you know or understand the sport of soccer, its never uncool to support your country during the Women’s World Cup.
Last summer gave fans a chance to see the men’s international teams from each country compete in one of the most respected tournaments in the world.
This summer, fans can get back out those jerseys and scarves and head back out to the pub to root on their country in the women’s world cup.
Sure its easy to go to any old sports bar, but why not try either one of these soccer specific bars for an authentic experience?
The Cock N’ Bull
A cozy building just off Rosewood, The Cock N’ Bull features an authentic soccer setting with memorabilia filling up the walls to capacity.
With a full menu and over 21 beers on tap, owner Scotty Scheno relishes the moments that he can unite soccer fans.
“It’s a comfortable neighborhood type pub with autographed jerseys and scarves,” Scheno said. “It’s great, we have a bunch of people coming to watch [The U.S.A.] and I’ve even been putting a T.V. on the porch for people to watch outside.
While not a huge soccer fan himself, Scheno loves watching the women play and considers himself an avid USA soccer fan, men and women.
The British Bulldog Pub
Tucked away in Columbiana Station, this restaurant is owned and operated by a couple of gentleman from Liverpool, England, meaning it has a very traditional pub style.
It’s the only American Outlaw (official fan group of US Soccer) bar in Columbia, meaning they draw huge crowds for World Cup games and friendlies alike. See page 8 for more on this group.
“We pride ourselves on creating an authentic feel,” general manager Chris Ahlberg said, adding that the Fish and Chips dish is served the most.
During the games, Ahlberg says that the crowd can get rowdy (in a good way) with chants, songs and passion.
The British Bulldog has an award-winning beer selection with over 100 different bottles and 33 taps, all while serving traditional English food.
Both of these pubs have a lot to offer and if you’re looking for a place to watch the United States play, these are the top options. Both fill up quickly, so it is recommended to arrive at least an hour in advance of the game.
Aaron Ransdell (Twitter @RansdellState )
Where do you like to watch soccer? Let us know by emailing statefeatures@thestate.com or on twitter @GoColumbiaSC
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