Fans in Kingston despaired last night (11 July) as England's dream of Euro 2020 glory came to a grinding halt.

For the socially-distanced crowd in the Wheelwright's Arms in Kingston town centre, the night was one of two clear halves.

A euphoric reaction to England's 1-0 lead against Italy set the tone for the first half of the game.

England were able to hang on without an equaliser and the standout performances of Kingston-born Luke Shaw and Declan Rice were greeted with cheers and chants of "he's one of our own!"

But the Italians came back fighting in the second half and gained back control of the game, scoring in the 67th minute to take the match to extra time.

Frustration at England's performance was combined with outrage over decisions by officials, particularly when Italian player Jorginho escaped a red card after his foul on Jack Grealish.

Extra time turned into penalties and the atmosphere reached fever pitch as Captain Harry Kane stepped up to face Italian keeper Donnarumma, later named player of the tournament for his spectacular saves.

But England fell at the final hurdle and fans despaired as 19-year-old Bukayo Saka had his penalty saved by Donnarumma, sealing Italy's victory.

It was still an enjoyable evening for most punters and despite their evident disappointment there was applause for Italy as they took the trophy at Wembley.

Due to social distancing restrictions the pub was full to only half capacity, with tables and chairs spread out around the bar allowing punters to catch the game from a variety of TV screens.

The pub's landlord told Nub News that usually an event like would have 80-100 people indoors, with numbers estimated at around 40 for the game last night.

Many in the Wheelwrights Arms were regulars and it was lovely to see their rapport with the friendly bar staff who ensured drinks were kept topped up all evening.

With Tokyo 2020 Olympics due to take place later this month, we're sure many will be back.

And if social distancing restrictions ease up as planned on July 19 then we may see packed-out pubs again for the first time since early 2020!

Either way there'll be plenty to do in Kingston so keep checking our What's On section for the latest things to do in our town.

Thanks to local photographer Ollie G. Monk for the photos. See more of his work here: https://olliegmonk.square.site/portfolio [.L]

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