On Saturday, English fans transformed Manhattan into a lively scene reminiscent of West Britain, as local pubs filled with revelers celebrating a 2-0 World Cup triumph over Panama.
The atmosphere was electric as beer flowed and chants echoed, capturing the excitement of a rare, decisive victory.
“I’ve been here since half past one,” shared Michael Jennison, 32, a native of Manchester, who found himself “held captive” by the celebrations for nine hours at Smithfield Hall in Chelsea.
“This is a good way to be held captive,” he told The Post.
“I mean, it was always America. We call it West Britain… I came from Manchester… I went to the game in Boston,” he said.
“I spent $1,000 on the ticket, and it was a nil nil draw. Money well spent.”
At Jones Wood Foundry, the mood transitioned from energetic singing to a more cautiously optimistic atmosphere.
“As an English fan, there’s always an element of… realism,” said Ed Furnell, 42, originally from the UK but now residing in Brooklyn.
“We’re a very pessimistic supporting group.”
Not all Britons might be equally thrilled about England’s victory.
“We are also quite sad that Scotland went out, but I’m not quite sure that Scotland would be too disappointed if we went out,” he added.
Vincent Nash, 41, originally from London but now living in New York, watched the game at Met Life Stadium and later visited the Foundry for a beer.
“Everyone had the flags up, everyone was having really good banter,” he told The Post.
“There are so many English people here, and everyone has had such a great time, and it’s just been really good.”
“Everyone was chanting ‘Come on England!'”
