Scottish beer brand Innis & Gunn is in no doubt what to do now Scotland have qualified for next year’s FIFA World Cup. At risk of running with clichés, it’s open the pubs all night.
To be fair, Scotland’s 4-2 win over Denmark earlier this week was far more entertaining than most World Cup qualifiers we’ve seen this decade, and a billion times more interesting than England’s efforts agaisnt anyone they played, so why wouldn’t Dougal Sharp, founder and master brewer at Edinburgh-based Innis & Gunn make such a suggestion?
“Scotland qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 1998 is a defining moment for this generation, and Scots haven’t waited almost 30 years to watch it half-asleep on a tiny screen at home. These games deserve atmosphere, noise, and people coming together across the nation to back the boys in North America,” Sharp said.
“If kick-offs fall in the middle of the night, then extending opening hours would be a hugely positive step, not just for pubs and breweries, but for fans and communities across the country. Big moments in Scottish football are meant to be shared, and by extending licenses we can give people the chance to gather safely, celebrate properly, and support local venues at the same time – it’s a win for everyone.
“And let’s be honest, the way things are going, we should probably be preparing for a long run deep into the tournament. There’s no harm in being ready for a wee bit of history. So, to those in power, don’t miss this open goal, and give the pub trade – and the nation – another reason to celebrate.”
It’s probably a fair point given the precarious nature of the current hospitality scene, Sacha Lord and all. Although I can’t help thinking his long run prediction may prove to be off.
On the record, my grandma was Scottish, while the spelling of my surname allegedly is too, so don’t start having a go at me for the whole Scotland/rubbish football/beer Venn diagram.
