Fans Rally at State Theater for Hearts of Pine Semifinal Showdown
UPDATE: Excitement surged through Portland as fans gathered for watch parties to support the Hearts of Pine during their pivotal USL League One semifinal match against Spokane, Washington, on Sunday night. The atmosphere was electric, with hundreds uniting at the State Theater to cheer on their team as they aimed for victory.
The chant of “Hearts!” echoed throughout the venue, accompanied by the rhythmic thump of drums. Fans clapped in unison, creating an unrivaled energy that filled the theater. Just minutes before kickoff, the crowd came alive with a highlight reel, while the Dirigo Union, the team’s fan club, performed live music, igniting cheers and anticipation among supporters.
The Hearts of Pine made history this season, leading the league in attendance with an average of over 5,700 fans per game. Notably, they set a single-game attendance record last month with 6,440 fans packed into Fitzpatrick Stadium for a stunning 6-1 victory over Spokane. This remarkable fan engagement exemplifies the passionate spirit surrounding the newly formed team.
At the State Theater, fans Mike and Naneen Chace-Ortiz proudly displayed their custom flag, adorned with the team’s logo and their names. “Just the fact that they involved the fans from the beginning, the fans fell in love with them,” Naneen shared, highlighting the unique connection established between the team and its supporters.
Across Portland, the energy was palpable. Fans at the beloved Bayside Bar at the Portland Zoo crammed in to escape the rain, eagerly awaiting the match’s kickoff. The excitement reached a fever pitch when Ollie Wright scored the equalizer in the 52nd minute, sending fans into a frenzy.
However, the mood shifted dramatically when Spokane scored in the 44th minute, temporarily silencing the crowd at the State Theater. The brief silence was a stark reminder of the stakes involved in this crucial match. Yet, the resilience of the Hearts’ fan base quickly shone through as they rallied back, embodying the spirit of the team.
As the match unfolded, fans across Portland’s bars and homes remained glued to their screens, celebrating every goal and moment of brilliance. The camaraderie among supporters was unmistakable, showcasing the emotional impact of the Hearts of Pine’s inaugural season.
With the season still ongoing, fans are already looking ahead, eager for what comes next. Whether watching from local venues or at home, the unyielding support for the Hearts of Pine continues to grow stronger, making this a season to remember.
Fans are encouraged to share their experiences and support for the team on social media, amplifying the excitement surrounding this remarkable journey. The Hearts of Pine have not just captured the attention of Portland; they have ignited a movement of passionate supporters ready to cheer them on, no matter where the road leads.
Thump. “Hearts.” Clap. Stand fast! Ye are the boys of Maine.
