Stockport band Blossoms have announced they will be screening the England vs France game at their sold-out gig in Manchester on Saturday night.
The band, who have scored four top ten albums, are currently undergoing a four-night run at the O2 Apollo, which began last night (December 8). But those with tickets for Saturday’s gig who also wanted to watch England’s next World Cup match were fearing they would have to choose one or the other.
Thankfully, Blossoms have now confirmed that the quarter-final will air at the 3,500 capacity venue before they take to the stage. In a statement to fans, the band wrote: “The England v France World Cup quarter final match will now be shown live on the big screen prior to our performance at O2 Apollo Manchester this Saturday.”
READ MORE: Badly Drawn Boy announces series of intimate shows to celebrate 25 years of making music
The decision means that the ticket holders will now be able to enter the Apollo from 5pm, with support act Brooke Combe taking to the stage at the earlier time of 6.10pm before the match kicks off at 7pm. Blossoms are then set to perform at around 9.15pm.
Blossoms said their performance time could be subject to change, as a result of any extra time or penalties in the game.
The announcement came to the delight of many fans, with one attendee posting: “Fabulous, Thank you guys.” Another said: “Well done you lot.”
“What a great gesture," replied another, while one fan posted: "Nice one lads! See you there!"
Earlier this week, Beautiful South singers Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott made the same decision regarding their Saturday night show at Manchester’s AO Arena. Following messages from fans, the game will be screened at the venue ahead of the duo’s performance.
Fans of Heaton and Abbott will be allowed into the arena from 5pm, with Billy Bragg performing at 6.15pm. The duo are set to perform from 9pm, but have said they will not be able to show any extra time or penalties.
Read more of today's top stories here.
READ NEXT:
Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds to play special homecoming gig at Wythenshawe Park next year
How to make your own Spotify festival line up with Instafest
Eurythmics lyrics heard from Night & Day in neighbouring flat, council claims in court
Florence + The Machine announce rescheduled UK and Dublin tour dates after cancellations
The Weeknd announces Manchester date for After Hours Til Dawn stadium tour
