2019 SPC Tour of Ireland – Day 11 Belfast – London – Craven Cottage

A very early breakfast set us up for a busy day. We were on the bus at 6.00 heading for the airport to fly out of Belfast. We farewelled our talented bus driver, Peter Byrne, who has enlightened us with local history, entertained us with Irish humour and got us safely 1000 kms around the country.

Following our arrival in London we came to truly appreciate Peter Byrne as what he could do with one bus, London needed two. After a quick changeover at the hotel we had lunch and departed for the much-anticipated Everton/ Fulham clash at Craven Cottage. The boys had to negotiate all the wonders and challenges of the Underground. Some boys are still scratching their heads as to how they got there.

In plenty of time to buy souvenirs, watch warm ups and generally engage with pre-game entertainment, we watched the stadium fill with fans. The boys were treated to an exciting match where despite them being advocates for Aussie Rules they fully appreciated the skill and athleticism soccer requires. They further appreciated how jolly cold it gets in England. After a brief shower, the skies cleared for a sunny, albeit cold, afternoon -“ perfect conditions for watching the match. Despite being the underdogs, the home team scored two goals rousing the Fulham faithful to war cries.

Returning to the hotel, the boys had some free time prior to enjoying a hearty meal that warmed us up and prepared us for tomorrow.

See photos from today at:-

https://www.facebook.com/pg/spcoca/photos/?tab=album&album_id=3155954701096936