Thousands of Socceroos supporters braved a chilly winter morning to pack live sites and pubs across Australia for the do-or-die World Cup clash with Egypt. Despite the heartbreak of a 4-2 penalty shootout defeat after a 1-1 draw in Dallas, fans were generally well behaved, according to police.
Federation Square Draws 7500 Fans
In Melbourne, about 7500 supporters gathered at Federation Square, with police out in force. Eleven flares and a smoke emitter were activated during the game. Six flares were lit and thrown after the Socceroos scored their first goal. One man was arrested for possessing a distress signal and discharging a missile, while three others were detained for possessing a flare and are expected to be charged on summons. A teenager was also arrested for carrying a flare but was released.
AAMI Park and Other Live Sites
At Melbourne's AAMI Park, about 6000 fans attended. Two people were found by security with banned items at the entrance and issued penalty notices. Two others were ordered from the venue after entering the pitch. Despite these incidents, Victoria Police said they were generally pleased with crowd behaviour. Anyone found carrying a flare can expect to be charged on summons with possessing a distress signal without a reasonable excuse.
Sydney and Other Cities
In Sydney, live sites were held at Tumbalong Park at Darling Harbour, Cathy Freeman Park at Homebush, and Parramatta Square. Screenings also took place at South Bank in Brisbane, Northbridge Piazza in Perth, and The Drive in Adelaide. Licensed venues in Victoria and NSW were given special permission to stay open for the 4am kick-off.
Hickens Hotel Ready for Crowd
Melbourne's Hickens Hotel, a longstanding fan favourite, was among venues taking advantage of relaxed licensing laws. With capacity for more than 1000 patrons, bar manager Giuseppe Lacaua told AAP ahead of the match: "We'll be full." The venue, boasting more than 60 screens, began preparing months in advance.
Viral Walmart Invasion in Dallas
Meanwhile in Dallas, vision of Australian fans taking over a Walmart near the stadium went viral. Fans were seen on the street chanting "We're going to Walmart" before hundreds crammed into the supermarket, draped in green and gold, singing "all Aussie boys." Social media account 'ayceholdr' shared the original video, saying: "Can confirm. They had no idea." Podcaster and former AFL player Dan Gorringe posted: "BEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD. Walmart never stood a chance." US journalist Texi Smith noted: "For some reason, the Socceroos fans have just invaded a Walmart at Dallas Stadium. Champions of Walmart, you'll never sing that! Peak Aussie nonsense."
