THE ENGLAND football team has certainly put smiles on fans' faces after the opening win against Croatia.

Thousands of supporters were allowed to attend Wembley stadium as coronavirus lockdown rules continue to ease.

And the gloom of the past 15 months was also lifted here in Sussex as footy fans were able to meet their friends and enjoy the sunshine at pubs and venues.

In Brighton and Hove, pubs across the city enjoyed a bumper day of Sunday afternoon trade as patrons flocked to enjoy an ice cold beer while supporting the national team.

Gareth Southgate's side looked the better team for much of the game against Croatia, and the best chance of the match was taken by Raheem Sterling following a superb run from midfielder Kalvin Phillips.

The Argus: Raheem Sterling bagged the goal for England. PA picRaheem Sterling bagged the goal for England. PA pic

Albion fans did not get to see stalwart Ben White make an appearance, but there would have been plenty to please them with the first display by the England side looking to improve upon their Semi Final showing in the World Cup in 2018.

This year the Luna Beach venue announced it was not going to show matches live on the beach at Brighton.

But at Brighton Marina a big screen was set up at Marina Square.

The Argus: About a thousand England fans gathered at Brighton MarinaAbout a thousand England fans gathered at Brighton Marina

Fans flocked to the venue on buses, in cars and on foot with their England football shirts and flags.

But with half an hour before kick off the venue proved so popular that a warning message on Twitter was posted saying there was no room left.

About a thousand supporters had gathered there, and some fans were asked to leave the area or told they could not enter the square to get a glimpse of the game.

After a year of many of us not being able to visit family, friends or loved ones, it was also an opportunity to enjoy the football at home.

Among those doing so was Gary Arnold from Hangleton, whose son Jack Arnold had some pals round to watch the game.

The Argus: Fans also watched the game at homeFans also watched the game at home

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