Soccer Experience

On Sunday 20 June a bunch of enthusiastic Indunas gathered at the Shell Garage in Hazyview before departing for Mbombela Stadium to watch the Italy/New Zealand game. Everyone had on a bright yellow soccer shirt and those armed with a Vuvuzela made themselves heard loud and clear! We were a sight and sound to behold!

Our two Quantum mini-busses hit the road and it was great to see the spirit and excitement on fellow Sellow South Africans' faces. Now and again a spontaneous Vuvuzela contest would erupt as we passed other vehicles occupied by soccer fans. When we reached Nelspruit we made a very welcome pit stop for lunch at McDonald's. We each wolfed down a Big Mac, chips and Coke. Some of us decided that it would be a good idea to come prepared and acquire a set of ear plugs, and we all made sure we had an Italian flag painted somewhere on our faces, or in some cases, heads!

We parked at the Riverside Mall and made our way to the "Park-and-Ride" facility. Needless to say there were hundreds of others who were waiting for a ride to the stadium. Many were eccentrically dressed and most were proudly blowing on their Vuvuzelas in anticipation. We were impressed at the rate at which empty busses arrived to pick up loads of spectators and transport them to the stadium. Soon we were on our way! On arrival, the stadium was already buzzing with excitement and we made our way to our seats just in time to watch the teams warming up. Soon after, anthems were sung and the whistle blew. It was like being in a bee-hive! New-Zealand scored a goal during the first few minutes and things grew a bit more silent. It was no secret that most South Africans were rooting for Italy. Not long after Italy scored from a penalty and the stadium erupted all over again. Mexican waves ran through the crowds and Vuvuzela choruses chimed in.

In the end the game was a draw and we hurriedly left our seats to secure an early bus back to the mall. Everyone was talking excitedly about the game and the atmosphere was jovial. Soon we were on a bus and enthusiastic conversations continued between people of all colours and nationalities. In a way, a game of soccer had united us for a few hours- our common purpose to enjoy what our beautiful country has achieved despite the reservations of many. Well done South Africa!