League of good times

Aug 18, 2010 - Aashray Hariharan(The Asian Age)

When the English Premier League kicked-off this weekend, guys across the world heaved a huge sigh of relief in unison. The men, who are just an excuse away from getting together with their buddies for a night-out, have found the perfect one in the form of the football action of the EPL.
The fast paced sport, coupled with the convenient scheduling of the matches that are held prime-time and late nights on weekends, ensures that the guys can have a most rollicking time. Fashion model and TV actor Karron Mallik says that heading over to a sports bar for an EPL weekend is the best end to a tough work week, and is something he and his gang cherish a lot. “I was initiated into football by my Spanish girlfriend, and we had a lot of fun cheering for Spain even during the World Cup. Now that the regular weekend football has started, it’s great fun to catch up over some football and a drink with your friends after a tough work week,” he said.
This year, the EPL is expected to be especially popular, as the World Cup induced Fifa fever is yet to subside. Even those who weren’t big on football have started following it, and make pilgrimages to their favourite watering holes on weekends. TV actor Arjun Punj says he is one of the converted. “I wasn’t such a big fan of football before the World Cup, but I quite enjoy the sport now. As for the EPL, it will take some more time before I get acquainted with the clubs and the players, but my friends are really big fans, so I generally tag along for the company. There’s something about the sport that lends itself to company,” Punj said.
And while the guys seek merriment and company over football, the restaurant and pub owners are the ones happiest by these developments. Sangram Singha, corporate bar manager of Sports Bar says they witness upto 25 per cent more crowds who come in solely to cheer their favourite teams along.
“We often have tie-ups with liquor companies who provide us with flags, jerseys and merchandise. And from our side, we have special menus with drinks and dishes named after the top players. There are also specials like happy hours and special deals on match days,” he said.

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