BEER-guzzling in Barbourne, packed pubs in Callow End and partying in The Cornmarket.

England and the Faithful City were up for it. With pints and pints flowing, the mood and atmosphere of fans in bars across the city was immense. Sven's red-and-white army didn't fail to deliver.

At 11.30am, pubs across the city were already packed full of punters, with hordes dressed in patriotic colours.

Ray Brierley, manager of The Exchange in The Cornmarket, said he was already close to capacity long before kick-off.

"We were 90 per cent full an hour before the match," he said. "The atmosphere is immense."

As patriotic fans struggled through the doors, the big screen atmosphere - complete with streamers and the sounding of a claxon - created a special party feeling on a magnificent day.

One fan came complete with David Beckham haircut. Another looked like Emile Heskey. The omens in the pub were good.

Shimmy

As this grudge match between two great rivals wore on through the first-half, Beckham accidentally giving Gonzales a bloody nose undoubtedly raised the biggest cheer.

That is until a shimmy from Owen brought the penalty - and Beckham slotted it home.

The relief on every face was clear. Nervous looks turned to clenched fists raised high in the air, and the whole place exploded.

"The atmosphere's fantastic, it's the best thing since Euro 2000 and everyone's behind the team" said Wayne Penn from Ronkswood, as beer went everywhere.

Fans in Coppertops pub and restaurant, in Dines Green, didn't let the side down with a fantastic family atmosphere.

"I've brought the two boys and the daughter," said Nick Waldron, of Dines Green. "I certainly didn't want them to miss this vital game. People of all ages have come out to support this team."

With two minutes of added time to play, the tension and nerves were immense.

But, as the final whistle went, cheers deafened the pub and the Three Lions anthem echoed to the rafters.

Cheated out of the World Cup by Maradona's infamous 'Hand of God'. A Michael Owen wonder goal not quite good enough to win four years ago. But, as mighty England battled out of their skins this time round, there were tears of joy. And no one was crying for Argentina.