Welsh pub shows dead rubber rather than Bosnia game
Cardiff pub slammed for showing England rugby match rather than Wales' historic football qualification
Dempseys, on Castle Street, chose to play England vs Uruguay despite England having no chance of qualifying, rather than Bosnia vs Wales, which Gareth Bale and co needed a point from to qualify for Euro 2016.
Fans said they’ll never go back to Dempseys, but the pub has defended its decision in a statement, explaining it put the choice to a vote.
Wales fans took to social media to vent their anger, with supporters group The Barry Horns leading the onslaught.
One fan joked the pub might play a repeat of England’s dour 3-0 over Lithuania on Monday.
Sarcastic remarks flooded in.
Another fan suggested parallels between England vs Uruguay and Holby City.
Tom Whitmarsh-Knight described the decision as “farcical”.
But some Welsh fans did get to see their team make history, even in England.
Brains Brewery's full statement read: “As a proud Welsh hospitality brand we endeavour to show Welsh sport where ever possible, however we are also led by the demand of our guests. When there is an overwhelming demand for a clashing game to be shown we feel that it is fair to listen to the majority. With regards to the situation at Dempseys last Saturday, we had a high number of international fans in the pub who expressed a desire to watch the England vs Uruguay game.
"This matter was put to a vote, with the majority of guests opting to watch the rugby. Our sponsorship of the Football Association of Wales has been ongoing for 10 years and it is a partnership we are exceptionally proud of and we are greatly looking forward to Wales’ participation in the Euros in 2016 and major championship football for the first time since 1958.”
Wales lost, but still qualified, while overwhelming favourites England beat Uruguay 60-3 in a match that was never likely to be a classic.
Sky Sport urges licensees to benefit from using multiple viewing cards, to ensure all fans are happy.
How do you decide what game to put on? Email byv.tebff@jeoz.pbz
