Is football coming home?

Tuesday 03 July 2018

As England takes on Colombia in the last-16 of the World Cup a number of venues are screening tonight's game so supporters of both countries can cheer on their team.

The game is due to kick off at 19:00 (21:00 local time) at the Spartak Stadium, Moscow. It has been described as a re-match of the 1998 clash between the two sides which ended in a 2-0 win for England.

Hopes are high for England, having not won the World Cup since 1966, while Colombia has never lifted the trophy.

For those wanting to see who will progress to the next round tonight, a number of premises across the Bailiwick will be showing the game. 

Among them is The Peninsula Hotel which was recently taken over by Ian Walker who also owns Les Douvres and Le Fleur du Jardin. His staff are introducing a number of new events for visitors and locals including the addition of a big screen to show big events like national football games. 

Mr Walker said he wants to set a new trend with the hotel offering new initiatives for customers. 

He said; "hospitality in Guernsey needs a kick up the proverbial, no one wants to take the risk. We, on the other hand welcome the challenge and will always push the envelope."

The KGV is among other venues also showing the game with promotions and food available along with an ongoing World Cup sweepstake. 

With a number of licensed premises offering promotions, Guernsey Police have repeated their previous message that, as always, public safety is the priority but they also want football fans to enjoy the tournament.

Chief Inspector J-P Le Breton said earlier in the tournament that guidance had been issued "to all licensees ahead of the start of the 2018 Football World Cup and we will be actively working with them to ensure a safe and successful tournament."

He said, it was hoped that football fans can have fun, without experiencing some of the problems seen elsewhere.

"We would urge all supporters to have fun and enjoy the football, but to behave in a responsible manner and have respect for others whatever the outcome of the match in question.

"Our priority is public safety and officers will be carrying out liquor licence visits throughout this period to ensure that everyone who goes out to watch the World Cup can enjoy doing so without fear of disorderly or intimidating behaviour."

Pictured top: The new big screen at the Peninsula Hotel