England fans across South West London are gearing up for a night on the tiles as the Three Lions take on Mexico in the Round of 16, despite senior police figures voicing concerns over the late-night licence extensions.
Kick-off is at 1am BST on 6 July, and venues across the capital have been granted extended opening hours so supporters can watch the match together.
But Chief Constable Mark Roberts, National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) lead for Football Policing, and Acting Chief Constable Scott Green, NPCC Lead for Alcohol Licensing and Harm Reduction, hit out at the government’s delay in announcing licensing extensions.
In a NPCC statement, the pair said: “The likely route for England progression has been known for a considerable time yet this late announcement leaves policing having to adapt our plans seeing officers working extended shifts which in turn takes them away from communities.”
Despite the warning, they stressed their aim was to help people enjoy the match safely, urging fans to drink within sensible limits and behave in a way that keeps themselves, their friends, staff, officers and the public safe.
They added: “We ask those watching the game to be considerate, drink within sensible limits, and behave in a way that keeps you, your friends, staff, officers and the wider public safe.”
For those still planning the night shift, south west London has no shortage of options.
The Falcon in Clapham, one of the area’s largest sports pubs, will show the match on its big screens and is encouraging fans to book ahead.
Leather Bottle in Earlsfield is opening specifically for the fixture, offering seats in front of 16 screens.
The Sun in Clapham, freshly reopened after refurbishment, will show the game late into the night both inside and out.
Hope & Anchor in Brixton is offering more than 20 indoor and outdoor screens, with bookings required.
Hawkins Forge in Battersea is pairing its darts experience with big-screen coverage in the bar and garden.
Music venues Northcote Records in Battersea and Venn St. Records in Clapham will stay open until 4am, matching the football with cocktails and a soundtrack.
Several venues have confirmed no walk-ins for the late kick-off, so fans are advised to book ahead if they want a seat for the early-hours drama.
Featured image credit: Roche Communications
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