Brighton fans’ dismay at England rugby defeat

At the outset it was all to play for, and rugby lovers across Brighton watched the action on the edge of their seats.

At Ye Olde King and Queen pub in Marlborough Place, punters hushed one another as they looked on at a huge screen beaming the match in live from Yokohama.

Even as the Springboks led 23-12, pub goers were optimistic.

Billy and fans when it was still all to play for Billy Williams – who dressed up as Saint George for the occasion – wore a smile on his chainmail-protected face.

He said: “It’s all right. We just need a try and kick and we’re on our way. I’m here for England.”

But it soon became clear that the Springboks were easing ahead and leaving England well behind.

Orders for Guinness, bacon butties and full English breakfasts slowed as it became clear victory was out of reach.

One fan said: “It’ll have to be a miracle in Yokohama if they do it now.

“They’re just not playing the same game they were against the All Blacks. South Africa have it today.”

Another hollered: “Take control of the f***ing game!”

Disappointed fans

Soon, it was all over for England. 12 - 32. Pub goers had begun to stream out before time was up.

Billy stood at the bar in his tunic, nursing a full pint of Guinness.

He said: “I love England and I always want the best for them. But we just weren’t good enough.”