‘A taste of what’s to come’: 10,000 people expected at Sky Stadium for Football Ferns v USA game

Football Ferns striker Gabi Rennie attempts a shot at goal against South Korea at Orangetheory Stadium, Christchurch. Photo / John Davidson - Photosport

Excited fans are making their way into Sky Stadium ahead of the Football Ferns bid to win against the reigning world-champions, the United States.

More than 10,000 people will pack into Wellington’s Sky Stadium this afternoon which Sky Stadium chief executive Shane Harmon said was a “very healthy” crowd for a Wednesday afternoon kickoff.

“It’s smashed the previous records for the Football Ferns so that’s a great result, to see there are thousands of people getting behind the Ferns.”

Wellington football fan Odette Ford Brierley told the Herald she is “absolutely stoked” for the game.

“While the US team are incredible, I’m more excited to see New Zealand! Women’s sports are becoming more prominent in New Zealand, thanks in no small part to the Black Ferns, and the Football Ferns are a really strong side, so I’m pumped to see how they go.”

As for her bets on the winner, Ford Brierley said she will “always support the underdog”.

“So I’ll hedge my bets on New Zealand!”

The US Ambassador, Tom Udall, says he’s super-excited about today’s game and proud to support women in sport.

“It doesn’t get better than this. Blue skies and two great teams showcasing their skills. Today’s lucky crowd gets a sneak peek at what’s in store later this year. Game on!”

Today’s game will be the first of two between the Ferns and the United States. The second will be in Auckland at Eden Park on Saturday.

Harmon says the games are a taste of what is to come, with the Fifa women’s world cup kicking off this year.

“I think it’s going to be a really good family-friendly atmosphere. Weather is going to play its part and [we’ll] see some really exciting football.”

WellingtonNZ general manager of events and experiences Warrick Dent told the Herald the afternoon will be “fantastic”.

“It’s a beautiful day here in Wellington ... we’re confident for a good crowd.”

Dent said the game is a good chance to test out the operational side of things in preparation for the World Cup later this year and a great chance for crowds to get a taste of what’s to come.

“The United States is one of the best teams in the world with some of the best players - for us, it’s good to introduce world-class football to New Zealand.”

For local businesses, any Sky Stadium event is a good one - but this one has come at a great time.

Thistle Inn manager Scott Benton said the end of town the restaurant is located in can get “pretty quiet” but this afternoon there’s extra staff on hand to handle all the punters streaming out after the game.

“Its great for us and great for Wellington too – the city is pretty quiet around Christmas so its great to have an event this early in the year to get an influx of people from out of town.”

The gates at Sky Stadium will open at 2.30pm, ready for a 4.05pm kick off – and for those driving to the game, the carparks will be open from noon.