A trekking trip to Ecuador enabled me to fit a game in whilst staying in Quito, and has the day was also the last weekend of phase 1 of the championship, the TV asked for a game to move their kick off time, enabling me to see two games rather than one!
My trekking guide happened to be a season ticket holder at LDU Quito, so I had a free ticket and just $10 got me a taxi ride to the impressive Casa Blanca, a ground which had a Southern Spanish feel. Neither team were in the running for finishing at the top of the league after phase 1 of the championship so a low crowd with many of those attending not arriving till after thew game started. The football was also of no great standard but the visit was made worthwhile with the LDU supporters singing non-stop in the southern lower section. Plus the ground was impressive and the pitch in fantastic condition.
Once the game was over a quick $10 dollar taxi ride across town got me to the old national stadium to see the visitors Emelec try and secure the win that would see them in with a chance of finishing top of the league after phase 1 of the championship, but in the end the disappointing draw did not matter as Barcelona clinched the title with a 3-0 win clinched the title.
Very few fans were at the old national stadium and most of those present - over 80% were supporting the visitors. The heat was almost unbearable and you could see why most games normally have a morning/lunchtime kick off, the heat meant that the teams did not bother with an on pitch warm up, but again the pitch was in good condition and a decent atmosphere was provided by the away fans. i was sensible enough to get a seat with some cover as the sun crashed down on us.
If you get a chance to visit beautiful Ecuador, try and fit a game in, great stadium, cheap seats and if you choose the right game you will also get a great atmosphere.
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