BARS were packed to the rafters as agonised rugby union fans watched England fall at the final hurdle.
More than 800 people endured the emotional rollercoaster of the World Cup final in the Warehouse and Varsity bars on Zetland Street in Huddersfield.
The two boozers did a roaring trade as punters watched England’s underdogs succumb 15-6 to South Africa in Paris.
Liz Brown, manager at Varsity, said the bar was full to its 430 capacity.
She said: “It was one of the busiest nights I have ever seen.
“There was an incredible atmosphere – the cheering was deafening.
“A lot of people had come in to watch the football earlier in the afternoon and then stayed for the rugby. And a lot of them stayed on afterwards. It was all very good natured.”
James Bentley, boss at Warehouse, added: “We were full half an hour before kick off and I think a lot of people were disappointed because they couldn’t get in.
“With the exception of the result it was a great night. We had three South Africa supporters in and there were even some France fans supporting England.
“No-one expected England to get to the final four weeks ago, so a lot of people were just happy to be there.”
South Africa ended England’s reign as world champions to claim the World Cup for a second time.
Three Percy Montgomery penalties to one from Jonny Wilkinson saw the Springboks, who beat England 36-0 earlier in the tournament, lead 9-3 at half-time.
England controversially had a second-half try disallowed before a penalty apiece made it 12-6.
Francois Steyn then gave South Africa an unassailable lead with a long-range penalty.
