THE agony for Ireland fans of seeing their side go out of the World Cup in the cruellest fashion contrasted harshly with a weekend of ecstasy for England fans in North Yorkshire.

There were scenes of celebration all over the city as England defeated Denmark 3-0 on Saturday, but yesterday Irish eyes were far from smiling when the men in green lost out on penalties despite a brave display against Spain.

Many punters at York Racecourse were determined to ensure they didn't miss a minute of the England-Denmark match, watching on specially-erected screens, including the well-dressed inhabitants of the County Stand pavilion.

John Sawyer, from Acomb, York, who was wearing an England shirt under his jacket, said he didn't mind the possibility of missing a couple of races to watch the match.

"It's been a fantastic game. Everybody's behind the team and it's nice to know that people to follow the team."

A big screen in the Course Enclosure also attracted a large crowd giving vocal, pub-style support to Sven's men.

At one of York's premier places of football worship, the Northern Wall, the air of anticipation quickly erupted into ecstasy at the first goal.

Three Lions boomed out on the sound system, punctuating all three goals, as revellers, proudly sporting England colours, screamed, sang and jumped for joy.

One fan, Sam Dodds, 21, from York, said: "I can sum it up in one word - quality."

Jubilant fans spilled out into the city centre immediately after the match, as triumphant supporters paraded through the streets, with cheers and some spontaneous conga dancing.

Sean O'Reilly, from Woodthorpe, who had shaved his hair into a patriotic St George cross and dyed it red, said everyone was delighted with the result.

Mark Broxup, from Dringhouses, added: "Bring on Brazil on Friday."

Macmillan's doorman Ian Pearson said there had been a really good atmosphere in the city.

At the Marks & Spencer store in Pavement, about 50 fans watched a huge television screen - in the men's department.

Tim Tolliss, from Helmsley, said: "I'm not a football fanatic but I have enjoyed watching it - I didn't expect a TV screen here."

The men in green were cheered on yesterday in pubs across the county as supporters saw their team's dream so nearly come true.

At Scruffy Murphy's, in Micklegate, York, Irish fans were joined by their English and Scottish neighbours for the second round match against Spain.

Pub manager Alan Welch said: "It's been a fantastic atmosphere. We've had a lot of Irish people in and Scottish too as the Celtic Supporters' Club is based in this pub.

"We've had a lot of English fans too, and even a few Spanish, so it's been a nice mix."

Updated: 09:28 Monday, June 17, 2002