UTAS Stadium to host Matildas live stream for fans
Published on 15 August 2023
Northern Tasmanian soccer fans will have an opportunity to watch the mighty Matilda's World Cup semi-final match on not one, but two giant screens at the University of Tasmania Stadium on Wednesday night.
After Saturday night's epic nail-biting penalty shoot-out victory in the quarter finals over France, the Australian women's team will face off against one of the powerhouses of world soccer, current European champions England tomorrow night at Stadium Australia in Sydney.
The winner of that match will play the victor of Tuesday's other semi-final between Spain and Sweden in the World Cup final on Sunday, August 20.
City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said he was both excited and thrilled at the opportunity to watch the all-conquering Matildas take to the pitch against their English rivals in what will arguably be one of Australia's most anticipated sporting events in recent memory.
"The Australians have been in dazzling form so far this tournament and despite their underdog status leading up to this World Cup, they are now a genuine chance of beating the highly fancied England team, particularly given the Aussie never say die spirit, passion and commitment we witnessed on Saturday night against France," Mayor Garwood said.
"What the Matildas have achieved so far has transcended sport and as a new dad to our baby girl Billie, how inspiring are these incredible sports women. They have brought the country together like only Australian sporting heroes can and personally I've been captivated by their dedication and their commitment to each other and their fans and they should be incredibly proud of their journey so far."
The free family event will be held in Level 2 of the Function Centre at UTAS Stadium on Wednesday, with doors open from 6pm and all the action due to kick off at 8pm.
Mayor Garwood said it was initially hoped to screen the game in Civic Square, however, with a high chance of rain and very cool conditions forecast on Wednesday evening, the Council instead chose the warmer, dryer confines of UTAS Stadium to host the event.
"Whilst we love and encourage embracing the winter that Launceston brings with our off season events, puffer jackets and uggboots, we have made the decision based on not only the weather, it being a later-ish kick off at 8pm, but it's also a school night."
A proper big screen will be set up inside the function centre along with an array of TV screens for optimal viewing, with the match also being telecast on the giant Stadium screens outdoors.
"Some people may have never even been to UTAS Stadium or into the function spaces, so what an awesome opportunity and location for this FREE event, with also, food and drinks available for purchase on the night courtesy of the North Launceston Football Club," Mayor Garwood said. "As a licenced venue, children will need to be accompanied by a responsible adult."
RSVPs are essential, with free tickets available through Eventbrite: https://bit.ly/459OBmO