Early Risers Cheer on US at Royal Falconer

Some may consider gathering at a bar at 8:30 a.m. to watch womens soccer a bit excessive.

But not for hard-core soccer fans.

About 25 people came out to The Royal Falconer Pub in downtown Redlands on Wednesday morning to watch the United States move to the Women's World Cup final with a 3-1 victory over France.

For some, there was no question as to where they wanted to be Wednesday.

"There was no question about it," said Tim Small, of Riverside. "It could have been at 6 a.m. and it wouldn't have mattered."

There with members of his family, they were making a day of their visit to the Falconer, staying for the other semifinal game between Sweden and Japan.

And they had no problem skipping out on a work day. Especially after Sunday's exciting finish for the US against Brazil.

"I told them I'm drinking beer and watching a soccer game," said James Small. "I don't care."

Fans watched with rapt attention, as if they were at the game. High fives and cheers followed goals, and despair followed France's lone goal. And when Diamond Bar's Alex Morgan scored the third goal for the United States, there was a collective celebration, followed by a sigh of relief.

The US moves on to Sunday's final against Japan, also a 3-1 winner Wednesday. Television coverage will begin at 11 a.m.

The Royal Falconer already offers breakfast service on weekends, and plans on opening at its regular 9 a.m. time.

The Smalls were already making plans, to make sure they had the best seats to watch.

"We're going to have to be here at 9 a.m.," Tim Small said.