To stay alert during the match between the Springboks and the All Blacks, a preliminary plan is necessary, as the fourth and final match of the greatest rugby rivalry series will take place in Baltimore significantly later than the usual 5:00 PM start time; the whistle will blow at 11:00 PM.
For younger viewers, 11:00 PM might not seem that late, as they are likely just getting ready to leave the house. However, those who usually go to bed by 9:00 PM will require careful planning not only to get there by 11:00 PM but also to last through the entire match, which could last until almost 1:00 AM.
Those planning to go out can find a bar or venue organizing the viewing where the atmosphere will help keep them active. Those watching at home should develop a strategy.
Invite a Late Braai
Since braai and rugby are closely linked, if you are hosting guests, you will have to stay awake. This is probably the only evening when starting a fire late won't be judged. It is recommended to light a big fire, invite everyone outside, and spend time around it before the game starts. Socializing will help everyone stay alert, and before you know it, it will be time to start.
Of course, if you are drinking alcohol, watch your pace. The last thing you want is to prepare for the game and then miss the second half because you drank too much and fell asleep. Starting the braai a little later will be forgiven.
Watching with Family?
It is important to take care of children in advance. If your children are younger and do not plan to stay until the end of the match, finish their bedtime before the pre-match hustle begins. There is no need to negotiate pajamas and brushing teeth at 10:45 PM.
For older children who are staying until the end, make it a full family rugby evening. Prepare snacks, keep drinks handy, and ensure everyone is settled comfortably before the first whistle. The break in the middle of the match is also a good reason to get up from the couch for a while: you can stretch, brew some tea, or step outside for fresh air.
Watching Alone?
The situation becomes more complicated when you are watching alone. There is no one nearby to maintain a conversation, laugh, or argue about the referee's decisions. If you know you tend to fall asleep in front of the TV, do not get too comfortable. Keep the lights on, sit somewhere other than your usual sleeping spot, and come up with something to look forward to during the game.
Do not wait until 11:00 PM to have a heavy dinner. Eat earlier and keep snacks on hand for later. Do not fall asleep on the couch.
If 11:00 PM is Too Late for You
Let's be honest, some people simply cannot handle 11:00 PM. If your usual bedtime is around 9:00 PM, try to take a nap during the day if possible. You don't need to sleep for hours; even some quiet downtime can help get through the evening.
Also, don't spend the whole day just waiting for the match. Go outside, run errands, and postpone the rugby excitement for a later time.
And Sunday Morning
This is the part nobody wants to think about. If you have children, work, church, sports, or a long list of Sunday commitments, remember that the match might end around 1:00 AM. Therefore, perhaps it is not wise to plan grand activities for early Sunday morning.
The good news is that this is the last match of the series, so you only have to do this once. Get comfortable, prepare coffee, prepare snacks, and do everything necessary to wait until 11:00 PM. After all, missing the match because you fell asleep at 10:55 PM while the Springboks play the All Blacks in the final of the greatest rugby rivalry will be a very painful start to Sunday.