Away up north Canadians from coast to coast will be keeping that strangest of holidays, that celebration of both spring and our colonial heritage popularly know as Victoria Day. We're a strange and diverse bunch, no doubt about it, but it says something to the nature of the peoples who live and have lived in this broad land that we can take something we've inherited from abroad and over the years mocked it up into a beloved and uniquely Canadian tradition.
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So fire up the barbeque, grab a beer, and bring on the fireworks. Another May Long is upon us.
Speaking of fireworks.
Away down south Argentinians all across their broad lands will be keeping their autumn holiday celebrating the beginning of the end of their colonial ties. It's a bit earlier and a bit longer this year as the Revolution Day festivities will include a final send off for coach Diego Maradona and his team as they ready to depart for the World Cup Finals in South Africa.
With a stern look and a fresh beard Mr Maradona will be serving up a hot helping of Argentina's finest footballers for the spectators at one of soccerdom's great cathedrals, River Plate's home the “El Monumental” in Bueno Aires.
Oh, and one more small thing, they'll be playing Canada.
No small stage this for coach Hart and his lads. No friendly kick about either. Argentina is leaving for Africa and 70,000 Argentinians are going to damn well demand they do it in style.
There is no denying Stephan Hart would have loved to have been able to bring a stronger squad to this wonderful event but with season end injuries having taken a toll on more than one important figure in his plans, the task ahead just gets harder and harder. There is also no denying Diego Maradona would have loved to see Canada bring a stronger squad as well. You can't sharpen your blade on a soft opponent. He might be in for a bit of a surprise.
It may be wishful thinking but Canadian teams have shown an aptitude for punching above their weight a little from time to time when the occasion calls for it. Just ask Mexico. Just ask Brazil.
It'll be some old familiar faces and baby-fresh new ones in Canadian reds today at the El Monumental. A hard days work and a memorial experience awaits for all. Win, lose, draw, or slaughter, it'll be a memorial day for Canada supports as well.
Viewing parties!
You can't have a Canada match and not have a Voyageur's Viewing Party. Enjoy a bit of company and a shout with Vs across the country, many with children friendly venues. Wear red, forgive the odd bit of passionate language and drive safe.
Must see!
RedNation has been doing the good work down in BA and giving our Canadian lads no respite. A must see well worth the watch. Check it all out at rednationonline.ca
Argentina vs Canada
Monday, May 24th
Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti, Buenos Aires, Argentina
3:30 PM EST
Roger's SportsNet
Until Brazil 2014
Allez Les Rouges
- Cheeta