Willowburn ready to 'host World Cup action'

Willowburn to cap big day of football off with live Australia v France screening.

BIG NIGHT: Australia's Mile Jedinak (left), celebrates after scoring against Honduras. Willowburn Football Club will have Australia's match against France live on the big screen tonight. Picture: BRENDAN ESPOSITO

FOOTBALL: Willowburn is gearing up for a feast of football today.

The club's juniors kick things off this morning before the day finishes off with a live screening of Australia's World Cup opener against France.

Club president Gerrard Alchin is excited to be part of the free event open to football fans and members of the community.

"It's a unique opportunity for us to showcase our club and football,” Alchin said.

"The juniors get under way in the morning before our older sides around lunch time and our senior teams later in the day. Then we have the Socceroos and France live on a giant outdoor LED screen, provided free by Optus from 8pm. When they (Optus) approached us we jumped at the chance.

"It's a good blend - we get to show how the game can be played at all levels.”

Alchin rates France among his favourites to win the World Cup but is hopeful Australia can produce a little magic.

"It's a big ask but it'd be great if Australia could grab a draw against France,” he said.

"If we somehow got out of our group you never know what can happen from there.

"I think you have to consider France one of the favourites alongside Brazil who will be looking to make up for the 2014 semi-final. Belgium are looking pretty good too.”

Interested people are invited to watch any of the club's games before the Australia match.

"We're expecting a really good night - it's going to be a great night and we want to encourage everyone to get involved,” Alchin said.

Willowburn Football Club is at Commonwealth Oval, 1 Wattle St, off Ruthven St.

Originally published as Willowburn ready to 'host World Cup action'