2005 English Premier League Fan Tour
Steven Gerrard, taking a free kick for Liverpool (Liverpool -vs- Spurs)
Ruud Van Nilstroy celebrates his second goal vs. Newcastle
Crew fans inside the Millenium Stadium, Cardiff, Wales
Electric atmosphere for the FA Cup semi-final in Cardiff
Next to the coaches area at Manchester United
Inside the 'Locker Room' and where all the greats get changed!
Walking the 'tunnel' at Manchester United
Fan Tour group with Brad Friedel45 Of The Columbus Crew Fans took a pilgrimage to the 'Home of Football' this past April and had a fantastic time watching games and soaking up the football culture.
The first morning the group arrived into Manchester Airport and after a transfer and check-in to a local hotel there was no time to rest. The group departed for Liverpool for the first EPL Game Liverpool V Tottenham. It was the 20 year aniversary of the 'Hillsborough Disaster' in which 96 Liverpool fans lost their lives. The 50,000 crowd sang a fine "You'll Never Walk Alone' and the atmosphere was electric. The game was equally as entertaining with a 2-2 tie and four spectatular goals.
No Rest For the Wicked
The second day began at 6am after the group sampled a few of England's finest ales the previous night. The bus took the group on a four hour journey through the majestic English and Welsh countryside. The destination was Cardiff and the Millenium Stadium for the FA Cup Semi-Final Manchester United V Newscastle United. The stadium is awesome with 70,000 on hand the game was as entertaining as the the crowd with Manchester United thrashing Newcastle 4-1. Two goals from Ruud Van Nilstroy, and the electric skills of Wayne Rooney provided perfect entertainment.
Liverpool: The Birth Place of the Beatles
Monday provided a welcome break from the travel and non stop action of the first two days and the group took the short journey to Liverpool. Although the group was greeted by the typical English rain it didn't dampen the spirits as they toured The Beatles Museum and two of Europes magnificent Catherdrals.
Chester: Memories of the Roman Empire
Tuesday a visit to the historic Roman City of Chester located between Manchester and Liverpool provided a opportunity to look back at time and the view what once was a Roman City. The walls of the city dating back to 700 AD and the buildings, gardens were a sight that pleased everyone.
In the evening the group attended the third game at The Reebok Stadium as Bolton and Southampton played to a 1-1 Tie. The Reebok one of England's newer stadiums has a capacity of 25,000, similar to the size of Crew Stadium.
Wednesday: Touring the 'Theatre of Dreams' Manchester United's Stadium
The group got a great behind the scenes tour at Manchester United. Touring the 70,000 capacity stadium was a dream for football lovers. The group toured the players lounge, sat in the locker rooms, walked down the players tunnel and sat on the benches! This was every football fan dream come true.
In the evening the group went to Blackburn V Crystal Palace and saw the teams battle to another 1-1 tie. Former Columbus Crew and US National team player, Brad Friedel spent time talking and meeting with the group afterwards.
Thursday: Romeo Romeo Where Art Thou Romeo!
The group transfered to London stopping at Royal Stratford upon Avon and the birthplace of William Shakespear. In addition, viewing the wonderful Warwick Castle. Arrival in London that evening for check-in and experience the buzz of one of the world's great city.
Friday: Cor Blimey Mate, Up the apples and stairs, Weclome to London Town!
The group had a guided tour of London making sure they could view all the historical sights in a timely manner. Shopping was a top priority and plenty of EPL Team shirts are now visible at Crew Stadium! A 'Jack The Ripper' Pub tour in the evening provided some ghastly tales in London's dark alleys and for those that didn't have the stomach the lighter side of the London night life was enjoyed.
Saturday: Chelsea English Premier League Champions!
The group attended the final game of the tour Chelsea V Fulham with former Columbus Crew star Brian McBride on show. The entertaining game finished 3-1 for Chelsea. The game was one week before Chelsea secured their first championship title in over 50 years. The atmosphere was electric and the stadium fantastic.
On saturday night the group enjoyed a 'night on the town' and fun was had by all! Sadly the next day the group departed for Columbus after a trip of the lifetime.