A SEEMINGLY spontaneous rendition of the chorus from Three Lions (Football’s Coming Home) erupted almost as soon as the cheers subsided, seconds after Harry Kane’s header found the back of the net.
It was a moment that sealed Germany’s fate and guaranteed England a spot in the quarter finals of Euro 2020.
Not that the small, but exuberant and enthusiastic, crowd knew that.
There was a good atmosphere at Greenside Cricket Club
With four minutes of the 90 still remaining, fans knew anything could, and probably would, happen.
But the atmosphere at Greenside Cricket Club, like pubs, beer gardens fan zones and households across the North-East, and the rest of the country, was changed.
The palpable tension, present most of the nail-biting game, was fading, and the nation was starting to relax.
It had started pleasantly enough, with glorious warm sunshine, cold flowing beer and Covid safe tables on grass with a big screen inside a darkened marquee.
Perfect for outdoor summer sport viewing.
Stephen Boyd, 50, from Greenside, who works in Durham City centre as a construction site manager, said: “I thought we were absolutely terrible for 75 minutes, but for the last 15 minutes we did what we should be able to do for the whole match.
“I am over the moon with the result though. We have got the team there that is able to progress in the tournament. We have just got to play to our strengths.”
Reaction to Sterling's goal
He said England could now go all the way.
He and wife Kerry were on their way for fish and chips after the game before settling into find out who Gareth Southgate’s men will face on Saturday.
She said: “It has been fun coming to our local place to watch with the telly outside with a good crowd, and beating Germany 2-0. It’s been great. I have thoroughly enjoyed it.”
Flag bunting bedecked the marquee, adding to the sense of occasion and the cricket club crowd was family friendly.
Children played on the grass while mums and dads enjoyed their drinks.
Reaction to Kane's goal
Three young lads with St George’s crosses on their faces cheered and celebrated the win, unaware this fixture does not always go this way.
England and Germany have got history.
Maureen Forster said: “We have laid a few ghosts to rest.”
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