It was no Valley Forge, but U.S.-vs.-England World Cup semi-final game split allegiances across Southern California
The packed dining room of the White Harte Pub broke into near-universal exclamation Tuesday when Christen Press scored the first goal of the Women’s World Cup Semi-Finals.
It was a moment not to be missed: England vs. U.S. St. George’s Cross and the Stars and Stripes. This was no Valley Forge, but just a couple of days before Independence Day, national pride was definitely at stake. So was a trip to the World Cup championship game on Sunday — everyone in this room knew how important this game was. Tension was high.
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With the quick header from the United States striker, backroom patrons jumped out of their seats, screaming with excitement and pride. However, the celebration was not ubiquitous. While most expressed joy, others hung their heads in disappointment after the first early goal.
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That tension in the White Harte Pub in Woodland Hills was palpable, and it — along with all the dramatic agony of defeat — could be felt at British pubs and sports bars throughout Southern California, from Long Beach to the San Gabriel Valley and from Orange County to the Inland Empire, as people gathered to enjoy the game, eat fried snacks and drink a cold pint (all on what most weeks is a just another work day.).
With every near-goal or promising cross, patrons went back-and-forth, expressing excited “ohs” or stressed-out “ahs.” While the U.S. voices were certainly louder than Englanders, there were enough opposing English cheers to challenge the rest of the room’s energy and vigor.
At the White Harte, in Woodland Hills, allegiances were split. Most rooted for the No. 1-ranked U.S., but fans of the No. 3-ranked England were not few and far between.
At Legends in Long Beach, a server described the environment as energetic, playful and above all: patriotic. She said the bar was covered in red, white and blue, with everyone showcasing home-town pride as a Fourth of July buzz filled the room.
At the Royal Falconer, a British Pub in Redlands, General Manager Samantha Cashio said most fans were rooting for the U.S., and even with a few opposing voices, the entire atmosphere was united through their love for the Women’s National Team.
Fans from both sides filled The Olde Ship, a British pub in Santa Ana, where Britain’s flag hangs from streamers and a red phone booth occupies a corner.
Jackie McGuinness, of Fullerton, waited on tables during the game. McGuinness is originally from England, which splits her team loyalty.
“It’s England at home, USA at work,” McGuinness said, though she jumped with joy as England scored a tying goal seconds later. Other Olde Ship staff cheered England’s advances from behind the bar.
The pub was just as busy as it would have been for a men’s match, though a bit less rowdy, McGuinness said. She was happy to see both fanbases being cordial and mingling.
American fans sporting U.S. jerseys erupted in cheers as American goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher made a crucial penalty kick save late in the game.
“That save was everything,” said David Kaufman, a U.S. fan and avid soccer player from Fountain Valley.
For Christy Willingham, 33, patriotism, fun and support for women all came together at the White Harte Pub viewing party. As an athlete, she appreciated how important the Women’s World Cup has been for women’s sports. She believes she has not seen this much interest for women’s sports in a long time.
Above all, guests at the White Harte Pub simply had fun.
“For me as a woman and someone who’s played sports, it’s fun to come out and show patriotism, especially in a place with so many England fans,” said 38-year-old Carly Worden.
After the 97th minute hit and the U.S. won 2-1, the room exploded in applause as England fans hung their heads in defeat.
After the game, McGuinness conceded the U.S. women deserved their win.
“It was well won,” she said. “England did the best they could.”
While it was a Brexit, of sorts, for England. The U.S. isn’t done. Fans have a chance to do it all again on Sunday. See you at the local pub.
Data reporter Ian Wheeler contributed to this story. Though this article was more about patriotic fans having a rocking good time. Not so much data on this one.