STV NewsThe Tartan Army’s “wonderful” presence has been embraced by Boston as tens of thousands of supporters descend on the city for Scotland’s first World Cup in 28 years.
An estimated 40,000 fans have travelled to the States to follow Steve Clarke’s side, who kicked off their Group C campaign with a 1-0 victory over Haiti on Saturday.
Based in Boston for the first two fixtures, The Tartan Army has made a significant impact, with bars, restaurants and local businesses praising the atmosphere created by the travelling support.
‘Absolute jubilation and excitement’
Over the past weekend, Boston has turned dark blue as tens of thousands of Scots continue to celebrate Scotland’s historic opening game victory against Haiti at the Boston Stadium.
Meredith Tipping, general manager of Boston Sail Loft Restaurant, described serving the Tartan Army as a “wonderful experience”.
She said her staff had been overwhelmed by the “camaraderie” of their Scottish visitors.
STV News“We know about championships, we know about big sports fans. Every single person we’ve come across from Scotland has been incredible,” she said.
“The best energy, just absolute jubilation and excitement. A bit of hooligans, but in the best kind of way.
“We’re just so excited to have them here. It’s been a wonderful experience. You get a lot of camaraderie with Scottish fans.”
At Boston Chowda, manager Driss Bounani said the supporters had left a lasting impression – even with an early drinking start.
“To be honest with you, your guys are amazing. We have had the best experience with the Scottish people,” he said.
“They are so funny sometimes. They start drinking early, but no problems, zero problems. They are kind, they are really generous, and they love the action.”
STV NewsLocal pubs had also been preparing for the influx of supporters, with some going the extra mile to make Scots feel at home.
Some bars, like The Dubliner in downtown Boston, anticipated the Tartan Army’s arrival by making sure they were well stocked up on one particular brand of beer.
“We actually went and sourced Tennent’s especially for the Scottish fans, knowing that it’s their national drink,” said entertainment manager Marty Healy.
“It’s been unbelievable in terms of the numbers and volumes that we’re doing of Tennent’s. Without a doubt, we’ve sold the most Tennent’s in Boston.
“Beer is a huge culture back home. It’s been hard to keep up with, but we’re doing a good job.”
‘The Scottish have made the difference’
On Friday, Craig Ferguson, from Paisley, was greeted by crowds of supporters at Boston Common after trekking over 3,000 miles for charity.
While on Sunday, Thousands of Scots flocked to Fenway Park, the Red Sox’s home ground, to enjoy an evening of cold beers and baseball.
Healy said the experiences of the Scottish supporters has transformed the atmosphere across the city.
“They’ve been unbelievable,” he added. “That guy who walked across America, the baseball game at Fenway last night – they marched down in their droves singing.
“The atmosphere outside the bar, inside the bar, all across the city has been unbelievable.
“The Scottish have made the difference.”
Even those charged with keeping decorum are having fun.
STV News“Scottish fans since they got here have been fantastic,” Sean Martin, deputy superintendent of the Boston Police Department, said.
“We didn’t know what to expect when we got here. We have seen the volumes of people coming in, but we cannot be happier. They’re very pleased, they’re happy, and they’re having fun. We could not ask more from the Scottish people.
“Many people in the department now want to visit Scotland based on how the people have been here.”
Scotland fans’ takeover of Boston will continue, as Steve Clarke’s side face Morocco in the city on Friday, before travelling to Miami for their final group match against Brazil.
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