Football frenzy in Tobago

TOBAGO was thrown into a frenzy yesterday afternoon after the Soca Warriors played to a goalless draw in their first World Cup encounter with Sweden.

Horns blared and lights blinked as vehicles with their flag-waving occupants took to the streets of Scarborough immediately following the match.

“We win. I don’t care what they say about no draw, in my book we win. They said all kind a thing about we, let them take that!” an exuberant Warriors fan shouted.

By 11:30 am, Tobagonians were hustling to get home, or to any location from which they could view the historic game. The streets were silent save for sudden outbursts of cheers whenever the Warriors did something favourable. Popular bars on the western end of the island were packed with die-hard supporters who cheered loudly whenever local boys Dwight Yorke and Cyd Gray and even the small contingent of TT supporters flashed across the screen.

Even the team’s bad start in the second half due to a red card issued to Avery John did not daunt Tobago fans who pledged their support win, lose or draw.

At the final whistle, the streets suddenly sprung back to life with celebrations reminiscent of when the team qualified for the World Cup by defeating Bahrain.

Several jubilant supporters told Newsday this victory was just the beginning, predicting a win over Paraguay and at least a draw against England.