Macedonian couple enjoy Ricoh hospitality |
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 A lucky couple enjoyed a VIP trip to the £113 million Ricoh Arena for England Under-21s’ UEFA European Championship qualifying clash against Macedonia.
With a population of just two million, there were fears there could be no Macedonian fans at last night’s game. But the Ricoh management ensured that would not be the case when they set about tracking down Macedonian nationals in the area. Following an appeal through the local media, Marija Kose and her husband, Alexander Mecev, came to light. Marija, from Krusevo in Macedonia, arrived in England four years ago to study at the University of Warwick and now works in the city as a search consultant. The 26-year-old, who lives in Hillmorton, Rugby, was delighted to have been invited to the match. She said: “This is the first time I have been to the Ricoh Arena and it is a massive stadium with a great atmosphere. “We are a small country that is still very young but in Macedonia, football and basketball are popular. “There is plenty of passion for football in Macedonia. I had not seen the young Macedonian team play before and I thought we did well.” The couple was treated to complimentary seats in the directors’ box, a hot buffet and drinks in the Jaguar Club. Daniel Gidney, chief executive of the Ricoh Arena, said: “It was fantastic to track down two Macedonian nationals in the area and we were pleased to be able to invite Marija and Alexander along to the game. “It was a great occasion and I hope the couple enjoyed themselves as much as everyone else seemed to. “Hopefully we will see them at the Ricoh again soon to cheer on the Sky Blues.” PICTURE CAPTION: Marija Kose and her husband, Alexander Mecev, with Ricoh Arena chief executive Daniel Gidney (centre) ahead of the international match at the venue |
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