Two excited fans dancing before the big screen at the Pier One complex in Montego Bay yesterday as the West Indies marched to victory against Pakiskan. - photo by Adrian Frater

Adrian Frater, News Editor

WESTERN BUREAU;

ALTHOUGH MORE than a hundred miles away from ground zero - Sabina Park in Kingston - the sights and scenes at the Pier One Complex in Montego Bay were probably as electrifying as those at the famous cricket ground as fans, who gathered to watch the game on the big screen, had a ball.

"I don't think I would have enjoyed myself any more had I gone to Sabina Park," said Marshalee Wanliss, one of the many elated fans who gathered at the makeshift mound created by Red Stripe. "I just love the atmosphere here and I definitely will be back for whatever games are shown here."

Outside of the atmosphere generated by the action on the big screen, the Pier One Complex, which had erected temporary metal stands, was very much like a cricket ground as pulsating reggae music blasted between overs and the thunder sticks made as much noise as that generated at the Trelawny stadium last week.

'Mound Mania'

The event, called 'Mound Mania', is designed to replicate the scenes oft the old mound at Sabina Park. It featured non-stop drinking and dancing as the fans cheered on the West Indies.

"I like the fact that for one price, I gained entry into the venue, got a delicious lunch and was allowed to drink as much as I wanted," said Imran Jeez, an English tourist vacationing in Montego Bay. "I am glad I came today and I will definitely be back."

The day was full of fun, the feed from Sabina Park was lost on a few occasions. However, it was hardly missed as the red-and-white-clad Red Stripe mound girls kept patrons thoroughly entertained with the latest dance moves.

The response from the Montego Bay fans was so pleasing to one Red Stripe official that, according to him, the decision to take the event to Montego Bay was more than justified after just one game.

"I can't wait for the other games here because I am anticipating the same amount of excitement," said the Red Stripe official, who asked not to be identified. "I believe I had as much fun as the fans today."