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SportsHansa Rostock fans flood London, matchday scarves sell out
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Thousands of Hansa Rostock fans have traveled to London for a friendly match against Watford, creating a massive demand for official matchday scarves. Only about 1,200 scarves were produced, but around 6,000 fans are expected, leading to shortages and fan anxiety. The article highlights the dedication of supporters, including Lutz Bartel who drove 1,300 kilometers from Germany overnight, and Kay from Lübeck who flew with his children. The hosts were reportedly surprised by the scale of the blue-and-white invasion, which has turned the match into a major fan event despite the scarf scarcity.
Source report
Scarf alert in London! For Hansa's away match against Watford (Saturday, 3 PM), only around 1,200 official matchday scarves have been produced — yet approximately 6,000 Hansa fans are expected on the island. Hours before kickoff, many supporters are growing anxious that latecomers may miss out.
The rush is already evident at the fan shop. An employee told BILD: "We can feel the demand. Maybe we'll order more."
The matchday scarves are likely to sell out soon. Photo: BILD
The numbers underscore the scale of the blue-and-white invasion. Around Watford Junction station, outside pubs, and on streets near the stadium, Hansa colors dominate hours before the match. Many fans began searching for one of the coveted scarves immediately upon arrival — fearing they would otherwise go home empty-handed.
The Night on the Highway
Among the lucky ones is Lutz Bartel. The Hansa supporter had one of the prized scarves in his hands shortly after arriving. But he, along with his son René and his girlfriend, had an extraordinary journey behind them.
Lutz Bartel (r.) with scarves in front of the Watford fan shop. Photo: BILD
On Wednesday evening, the three got into their car in Fürstenwalde (Brandenburg) and drove through the night toward England. While most people slept, they sat on the highway, racking up kilometer after kilometer and pushing through the darkness to the coast. "No distance is too far," Bartel said. Approximately 1,300 kilometers lay between their home and London.
Family Flight Instead of Ferry
Not everyone endured a night on the highway. Some chose a faster route. When the friendly match was confirmed, Kay from Lübeck immediately booked flights, a hotel, and tickets. With him: his children Alicia and Cahill. For both, it is their first visit to London.
Hansa fan Kay from Lübeck and his children are also looking forward to the friendly match in Watford on Saturday. Photo: BILD
"I just hope for a really nice, big crowd of us. For a really great atmosphere and that we leave our positive mark here."
The Scarves Might Run Out
The scarves are becoming scarce — but one thing is already clear: The hosts were apparently surprised by the enthusiasm of the Hansa fans. Thousands of supporters have booked flights, taken ferries, or endured hours-long car rides to be there.
The scarves might run out. But the stories behind this blue-and-white travel wave will not.
Source
BILD - SportWestern
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Hansa Rostock Fans Flood London, Matchday Scarves Sell Out