Boston is sweltering under 31C temperatures as plane-loads of Scotland fans continue to arrive for the World Cup – with the soaring heat expected to last into Saturday, when Steve Clarke's men face Haiti in their opening match. Around 30,000 supporters are expected in the city, and streets and bars are gradually filling with kilts and Scotland tops.
The tournament kicked off on Thursday night with Mexico beating South Africa 2-0, but the Tartan Army has already been making its presence felt. At the Haven Bar – Boston's only Scottish pub – a piper played the US national anthem and extra Scottish beer was shipped in to cope with demand. Among the early arrivals were brothers Paul Flynn and Gary Collins, originally from Glasgow but now living in Australia and York respectively. “There's a real air of anticipation, everyone is in a good jovial mood,” said Gary. “It feels like we're on the cusp of something special. The Tartan Army has got a reputation and Boston is welcoming us well so far. We've had people pulling over in the car just to say good luck.”
“Scotland fans face 31C heat in Boston as 30,000 Tartan Army descend for World Cup opener against Haiti.”
Yet the surge in numbers has created logistical headaches. Boston's main fan zone is oversubscribed, and a huge number of travelling fans do not have match tickets. The mayor of Boston, Michelle Wu, said her office was working on opening a “consumption area” for supporters, though it is not clear whether it will be ready in time for the 21:00 local time kick-off on Saturday.
Security at The Haven has also been given a crash course in Scottish culture. “Big” Jay Howard, who runs security with his brother Ed Murray, said: “It blew my mind, I came in yesterday and then these guys were wearing these kilts and they just started singing for no reason.” An American football fan, Jay added: “This is a whole new world for me. Bostonians are excited, the bars are booming and it's bringing a real buzz to the city.”
For many fans, simply being in Boston is enough. Jim Brown from Edinburgh said: “It's almost as good as at home. The beer has actually got a head on it here. A lot of US cities don't have that feeling. I don't think Boston truly knows what is about to hit it.” The BBC's lead weather presenter, Simon King, said it will be very hot and sunny on Saturday, with Boston experiencing a warm spell.
As the Tartan Army continues to descend, the city braces for a weekend of colour, noise – and relentless heat.