THERE was despair in Darlington, misery in Middlesbrough and sorrow in Sunderland as Gareth Southgate’s England heroes lost to Italy in the final of the Euros in the cruellest possible way.
The heartbreak of losing in a penalty shoot out was felt in fan parks, pubs and people’s living rooms across the region as the Three Lions couldn’t quite lift their first major international tournament trophy for 55 years.
The whole gamut of emotions was felt, as fans were well and truly put through the wringer – first the ecstasy and then the agony as the trophy slipped through English hands.
But despite the gloom, the overriding emotion among the fans was pride in an England squad who had brought the nation together in a wave of emotion over the summer.
The fans’ preparations had started early, as many sporting painted faces and England shirts gathered early to ‘soak-up’ the pre-match atmosphere, quite literally in some cases as early rain showers in Newcastle failed to quench thirsts or drown spirits.
The strains of Three Lions, Sweet Caroline and, of course, The National Anthem, were belted out with gusto as kick-off approached.
And it didn’t take long for the first eruption as Luke Shaw smashed home the opening goal for England with less than two minutes on the clock, prompting ecstatic scenes.
The party mood continued throughout the first half as England remained largely in control to the break.
But it’s rarely that easy, and as the second half wore on, Italy assumed control and the tension was obvious on the faces of the fans.
Their worst fears were realised when when Leonardi Bonucci levelled the scores, leading to howls of anguish - and heads in hands.
It stayed that way until the 90 minutes were up. To say extra time was tense would be an understatement and at times fans found it unbearable, anguish etched on their faces.
And so to the torment of penalties. At first it seemed to be going England’s way, with Sunderland-born Jordan Pickford saving an early spot kick.
But then two penalties were missed and although Pickford made another heroic stop, Bukayo Saka saw his final kick saved and England’s fate was sealed.
It was close, but not close enough. But England’s players – and their fans – can hold their heads up high.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here