Figures released by the Football Federation Australia (FFA) state that just shy of two million Aussies now regularly play soccer, an increase of 15 per cent over the last three years.
That number is similar to how many of us watch the English Premier League (EPL) on television on a regular basis. According to Roy Morgan Research, 1.7 million Australians paid to watch the 2015/16 EPL season, and it’s almost certain that countless more watched via more nefarious needs. Nothing, though, can compare to actually being there in the stadium, engulfed in a cauldron of noise as the two teams battle it out.
There’s a good reason for that. The EPL is the most dynamic, exciting league in the world, where anybody can beat anybody on their day. Exhilarating for the full 90 minutes, the action is breathless – and there is nothing like being there in the famous stadiums themselves.
Nothing can compare to being there in the stadium, engulfed in a cauldron of noise as the two teams battle it out.
The atmosphere of the EPL grounds is unrivalled around the world, and we at Motive Travel are proud to announce the we’re taking the first-ever escorted EPL tour from Western Australia next April – just as the season is hitting its exciting, nerve-shredding climax. Not only that, but we’ll also make sure that you have the best seats in the house so you can watch all the action unfold without missing a kick. Soccer identity and sports media personality Peter Vlahos will be your tour escort and you’ll also have the chance to meet club legends and enjoy corporate facilities during the inaugural Motive Travel tour – let’s take a look at a few of the games we’ll be attending.
1st April, 2017 – Chelsea vs. Crystal Palace
We’ll start our feast of football in the capital. Based in West London, Chelsea have a been a powerful force in English football for well over a decade, backed by the might of Roman Abramovich’s billions – the oligarch bought ‘The Blues’ in 2003 and the club have been drenched in silverware ever since.
Their South London rivals, Crystal Palace, are sure to provide a stern test. A London derby, just like our very own Western Derby, is always a feisty occasion that will bring with it no small amount of fireworks, both on and off the Stamford Bridge pitch. The noise coming from the famously loud Shed End provides one of the most exciting atmospheres in English football – and you can be right amongst it with Motive Travel.
4th April, 2017 – Manchester United vs. Everton
Manchester is but a short trip from Liverpool, and for this game, you’ll be taking a seat at the biggest of all EPL stadiums – United’s Old Trafford. With a capacity of over 76,000, this cavernous arena has seen its fair share of glory over the past few years. However, with United in a state of transition and the resurgent Toffees smelling blood, could an upset be on the cards?
We’ll also take in a tour of the ‘Theatre Of Dreams’, as the stadium is affectionately known – a fascinating insight into the history of the stadium.
5th April, 2017 – Liverpool vs. Bournemouth
Liverpool boast one of the proudest histories in the Premier League, having won the title on no fewer than 18 occasions. However, they are without a triumph since 1990, despite coming painfully close in 2014. Liverpool’s proud supporters yearn for another title like no other team, and under the management of the coveted Jurgen Klopp, are a real force to be reckoned with. Could they finally lift the title again after such a long wait?
They’ll have their work cut out against Bournemouth. Under the guidance of Eddie Howe, ‘The Cherries’ have fought their way to the top table of English football, playing an an attractive passing game that has won them many admirers.
Anfield (Liverpool’s home ground) is large yet compact, with the fans very close to the pitch to create a swirling atmosphere. ‘The Kop’ is one of the most famous stands anywhere in world football – and it will be booming if Liverpool are still fighting for the title come April.
Whilst we’re in Liverpool, we’ll also be visiting The Beatles Story attraction – a must for any fans of the Fab Four!
8th April, 2017 – West Ham vs. Swansea
We’ll be travelling across London to the refurbished Olympic Stadium to watch the Hammers take on the Swans for our final game of EPL action – an excellent chance to see West Ham pack out their fantastic new home, just up the road from their historic Upton Park. Pie, mash and cockled eels are a must when you visit this wonderful part of the city!
Be sure to get in touch with Motive Travel to find out more about our tour – it’s going to be a good one!
