Importance Score: 25 / 100 🔵
American Student’s Accidental Voyage with Football Supporters Results in Unexpected Fan Allegiance
An Arizona student’s mistaken boarding of a Thames River boat, filled with fervent football fans en route to a match, turned into an unexpected and enjoyable escapade. Evan Johnston, 21, recounted his amusing experience of inadvertently joining 150 Southend United supporters on their way to a National League game against Sutton United. What began as a potential travel mishap evolved into a memorable day out, culminating in Johnston declaring himself a new fan of the Southend team.
Mistaken Identity at the Pier
Johnston intended to embark on a tourist river cruise from Tower Millennium Pier in London. However, as reported by the Southend Echo, he mistakenly boarded a vessel chartered by Southend United Football Club supporters. Initially planning a leisurely sightseeing tour of London, Johnston found himself surrounded by a boisterous crowd of fans.
“My original plan was to take the Hop-On-Hop-Off river cruise, which I believe was located at the same docking point,” Johnston explained to the Echo. “I anticipated a relaxing hour-long cruise before exploring central London.”
He admitted to noticing cues that he might be in the wrong place. “I did have some inklings when I was queuing behind all the Southend fans, as they appeared to know each other and were chanting slogans I didn’t recognize. Nevertheless, I proceeded to board, thinking that if tickets were checked, I would simply be turned away. As it happened, no tickets were inspected, and I boarded the boat unnoticed.”
Warm Welcome from Southend United Fans
Andy Ward, a Southend supporter present on the boat, described noticing Johnston’s unintentional presence. “Someone on board informed me that a young man was on the incorrect boat, and I wanted to ensure he was alright,” Ward told the Echo. “Upon finding him, he was already engaging with the Southend fans, drinking and dancing. Despite any initial apprehension he might have felt, everyone was making efforts to include him and create a welcoming atmosphere.”
Ward added that Johnston was even offered a match ticket but was unsure about attending the game. “I encouraged him to join us,” Ward recounted.
From Tourist to Football Fan
Upon arrival at Blackfriars Pier, Johnston, now an honorary member of the Southend supporters, accompanied the group as they travelled by train to Sutton. There, he experienced the vibrant atmosphere of a football match. Southend took the lead courtesy of Ben Goodliffe in the 24th minute at VBS Community Stadium. However, Ashley Nadesan scored in injury time, securing a draw for the home team.
“I genuinely had a fantastic time on the boat and at the Southend game,” said Johnston, who is currently residing in London for six weeks as part of his academic studies. “I enjoyed it so much that I intend to attend another Southend game next weekend, hoping to see them secure a victory. I am now a devoted Southend supporter. Having not previously followed football closely, Southend is the first team I genuinely care about, and I am now rooting for their success.”
Club Extends Invitation to Future Match
A Southend United spokesperson communicated with The Guardian, expressing enthusiasm about Johnston’s newfound support. “We are very much looking forward to welcoming Evan to Roots Hall this weekend for our match against Solihull Moors on Saturday. We plan to give him an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium and introduce him to some of the players,” the spokesperson stated.
“Having learned that he was among the 1,459 fans in the away section at Sutton – entirely by accident – we are excited to demonstrate to him the experience of a home game with the Shrimpers.”