Toronto FC

What a great day.Like following a proper footy team before the advent of russian oil money, American investors and clinical new stadia with no atmosphere. Iam talking about the birth of Toronto FC (TFC).

Under an appropriately grey threatening sky, a sellout crowd of $20,000 sang swore and consumed overpriced beer at the 1st match at the brand new Canadian National Soccer Stadium (BMO Field).

In section 115, right behind the goal,most of the fans seemed to be English/Scottish,as we got to know eachother, joined in the apparant dislike of a team from Manchester (or nearby at least) that wear red...hmm. Scousers, Scots and Mancs plus the ethnic mix of TO all singing themselves hoarse - standing throughout the match- and consuming vast amounts of lager from 11.30 am onwards! There's the Red Patch Boys, U Sector and a great Jamaican drum band beating the rhythm out all match long.

It was just like I used to on the old Kippax terraces at City. Adding to the authenticity was the fact that TFC has not scored in their 1st four matches.

Mr Beckham, take note. When Kansas scored the winner, their scorer (US international Eddie Johnson) did his little dance in front of the South stand(the rowdy one we are in)....to be met with a shower of objects including pints thrown at him! Class.

Coach Mo Johnson desribed the event as a "European atmosphere" while the Kansas coach remarked that with the intimidating atmosphere (not witnessed elsewhere in the MLS),TFC would win lots of home games.

Ladies and Gentlemen, this ain't no corporate hockey arena, or dull baseball library...Nope. Tronna FC is the best and most raucous ticket in town - beer shampoos n' all.