While England’s players might have struggled in their second game of the Qatar World Cup, it was a far better result for our locals.

Pubs in Dereham and Fakenham saw fans turn out in droves to cheer on the Three Lions against the United States, with businesses reporting an evening of packed-out venues and great atmospheres.
Fakenham & Wells Times: Fans at the Railway Tavern in Dereham watch England against the USA Fans at the Railway Tavern in Dereham watch England against the USA (Image: Paul Sandford)

In Dereham, the Railway Tavern - which has long been a popular spot in the town to watch England games - it was another busy evening for landlord Paul Sandford.

He praised the mood created by fans, despite the frustrating 0-0 result.

“It was an amazing atmosphere, we are of course disappointed with the result but I expected it, as England never makes it an easy ride for us,” he said.

Fakenham & Wells Times: England fans watch on at the Railway Tavern as England are held to a 0-0 draw with the USAEngland fans watch on at the Railway Tavern as England are held to a 0-0 draw with the USA (Image: Paul Sandford)

“I fully expect that the pub will have another full house for the Wales game on November 29.”

Fakenham & Wells Times: England fans at the Railway Tavern in Dereham England fans at the Railway Tavern in Dereham (Image: Paul Sandford)

In Fakenham, the Henry IV has become a World Cup hub, thanks to its recent renovations, which include the installation of a pagoda to watch games in.

Fakenham & Wells Times: The Henry IV pub has become a World Cup hub in FakenhamThe Henry IV pub has become a World Cup hub in Fakenham (Image: Kevin Black)

On Friday night, there was a packed house of hopeful fans watching on.

Kevin Black, the landlord, said he was just pleased that the event was on, after the struggles of the pandemic.

He said the evening had exceeded his expectations.

Fakenham & Wells Times: England fans were out in good number on Friday night to watch the World Cup gameEngland fans were out in good number on Friday night to watch the World Cup game (Image: Kevin Black)

“It was a great night with an amazing atmosphere. It’s a lot better than the Euros, and has exceeded my expectations, the atmosphere has stepped up a notch from the Euros,” he said.

“It is great to see everybody out enjoying themselves, and having a tremendous time.”

However, after the highs of their first game, when England defeated Iran 6-2, fans were brought back down to earth as the Three Lions struggled for large periods and were second-best against the United States at the Al Bayt Stadium in Qatar.

Pubs will hope to do what England could not, and put in a repeat performance when England play Wales in the final group stage game on November 29.