Annapolis buzzed with excitement as soccer enthusiasts gathered to witness a world-class match between English Premier League teams Crystal Palace and Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday evening. Held at the Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, the event was a rare opportunity for local fans to see top-tier English soccer teams play on American soil.
Crystal Palace emerged victorious with a 3-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers, delighting fans like Virginia resident Killian Laschalt. "You don't often get to see an English soccer team come play in the U.S.," said Laschalt, who has been following Crystal Palace for about seven years. He chose to support the team because of their underdog story, rising from the bottom ranks to becoming formidable competitors.
For many fans, like Bryan Bolanos, the match was particularly special due to the presence of players like Daniel Munoz, a Colombian defender for Crystal Palace. "I actually kind of want them to win for that reason," Bolanos shared.
The English Premier League, consisting of 20 teams, is renowned for its world-class athletes who regularly perform before packed stadiums and a global television audience. Seeing these athletes in person was a unique experience for the American fans. Laschalt expressed his excitement, saying, "I'm just looking forward to seeing the players I watch on TV, in person."
The match in Annapolis was part of Crystal Palace and Wolverhampton's East Coast U.S. tour, aptly named the "Stateside Cup." According to Crystal Palace Club Ambassador Mark Bright, this tour serves as preparation for their upcoming season in August.
"Both teams are looking for the same thing, to hit some form, get some groove, some pattern of play and integrate the new players into the system," Bright explained.
Since arriving in Maryland, Crystal Palace has been actively engaging with the local community. They held training sessions at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, attended an Orioles game, and hosted a meet-and-greet with fans in Baltimore. "Packed with Palace fans," Bright noted. "And it just seems so strange. We're so far away from home and we've had so many fans come out to see us."
Local fans hope that hosting Premier League teams will boost the popularity of professional soccer in Maryland. Bolanos commented, "In Maryland, it's not too common or very popular, I guess because all the other sports are more talked about. So it's amazing that they're coming all the way from the UK to play here."
Annapolis Mayor Gavin Buckley expressed gratitude to the Premier League for bringing the Stateside Cup to the city, hoping it will inspire more locals to embrace soccer. The successful event indeed left a lasting impact on the fans and the community, marking a significant moment in Maryland's sports history.
