WEST CHESTER, Pa. - The dream of bringing Pennsylvania its first Little League World Series championship since 1960 is still alive — but the road just got a lot tougher for West Chester’s East Side Little League.
What we know:
East Side fell 3-1 in its opening game of the Little League World Series to Bayonne, New Jersey, but the loss did little to quiet the excitement back home.
Fans packed Saloon 151 in West Chester Friday night, cheering on the hometown team as it took the field in Williamsport.
What they're saying:
The watch party brought together family, friends and supporters who have been following the team’s remarkable run.
"It’s every little boy’s dream to make it to the World Series," said West Chester fan Joanne Giambalvo. "These kids, which we have seen, and the coaches with our kids — it’s amazing."
East Side is one of just 20 teams from around the world to earn a spot in the Little League World Series.
Why you should care:
For the players and their families, making it to Williamsport is already a dream come true.
And back in West Chester, the community has embraced the team every step of the way.
Fans packed the watch party, while family members proudly cheered on the players from home.
Saloon 151 is doing more than just hosting the crowd. The restaurant is also giving back to the team, donating 20% of food sales from the watch party to East Side Little League.
"Baseball is expensive," said Saloon 151 co-owner James Cappello. "It’s awesome how exciting this is. We wanted to give back to the community."
What's next:
East Side now moves into the elimination bracket following the loss.
Now, it’s win or go home.
The West Chester team returns to action Monday at 7 p.m., with its Little League World Series run on the line.