Port Elizabeth: MyPE - New records at Port Elizabeth Fan Fest

www.MyPE.co.za: After a scorcher of an afternoon in Port Elizabeth, the weather turned windy and cold at the FIFA Fan Fest at St George's Park in Port Elizabeth on Saturday afternoon.

The Argentinian supporters who watched their team lose 0-4 to Germany in their World Cup quarterfinal, felt the chill more than anyone else in the park.

The German fans, however, could not have been warmer as they waved hundreds of red and black flags until long after the battle was won.

The attendance figures for the day were not yet available, but FIFA Fan Fest director Glen van Eck said a new record was set on Friday.

An astonishing 38 262 spectators came through the gates to watch the match between Brazil and the Netherlands and the one between Uruguay and Ghana.

"We are extremely excited. This is the highest figure of all ten Fan Fests in the country. It is also almost 10 000 people more than our previous record day, which was set on the opening day when Bafana Bafana played Mexico."

More than 200 000 fans have visited St George's Park since the tournament started on June 11.

Heinrich Klum, a 39-year-old doctor from Berlin, said it had been evident right from the start that his team was going to win.

"They (Argentina) never stood a chance. They seemed more like fishes on dry ground than the proud football nation that produced legends such as Maradona, Passarelle and Kempes."

Klum said, despite the ten-minute power failure after halftime, the atmosphere at the Fan Fest was simply electrifying. "It's nice to see people bringing their families, even young babies, to watch the game here. Their passion is unbelievable."

Carlos Maria, a Brazilian carpenter, said while losing is painful, the game should always be bigger than people's emotions. "The Argentinians gave it their best shot and we should continue to support them.

“I had to watch the Brazilians lose against the Netherlands yesterday and shed all my tears. There's nothing more we can do."

Helen Maritz (68) came all the way from her farm near Steytlerville to watch the game at the FIFA Fan Fest in Port Elizabeth. "I lived in the old Southwest Africa for thirty years and simply had to come and support the Germans. I am very glad that I came."

The next action at St George's Park is on Tuesday with a live screening of the semifinal match that starts at 8.30pm. A highlight on the entertainment menu is the internationally renowned South African artist, Danny K, whose performance starts at 7pm.Entrance is free.

Fan Fest prohibited items: Weapons, Bottles, Cups, Jugs, Cans, Recording of sound or images is only allowed for private use, Alcohol, Drugs, Racist or Xenophobic material, Banners or Flags larger than 2m x 1.5m, Motorcycle Helmets, Objects which could compromise public safety, Food, Drink, Gas Spray Cans, Corrosives or anything that could cause a fire, Fireworks, Megaphones, Hooters, Gas Powered Horns (Vuvuzelas ARE Allowed), Selling of Goods or Tickets, Animals, Promotional or Commercial Material.

Venue Conduct: Arrive at least 2 hours early, Co-operate during security inspections and body checks, Stay out of restricted areas, Keep all emergency entrances and exits clear at all times.

Send your images from the Port Elizabeth Fan Fest to alan[at]mype.co.za.

Submit your images and article from your host city fan fest to www.MyZA.co.za HERE.