ENGLAND'S dream is over.

Hundreds of fans in Spark:York went wild as England took the lead in the World Cup semi-final against Croatia tonight.

But there was disappointment when Croatia equalised in the 68th minute, before clinching a winner in extra time.

Visitors of all ages waited nervously for kick-off at the city centre bar.

And fans wrapped in England flags and wearing team shirts lined up along the terrace to get a better view of the game being shown on two screens.

Journalism student Tom Bostock said he had been enjoying the atmosphere of watching the World Cup in the city before the kick-off.

The York St John University student said: “I’m nervous though. It’s been the best World Cup in ages - it’s been so unpredictable.

“Watching it here is the closest thing to the atmosphere you would get if you were there.”

Wild celebrations followed as Kieran Trippier dipped a free-kick into Croatia's net early in the first half.

England dominated for a time as fans in York dared to dream that Gareth Southgate's 'Unlikely Lads' might just be on their way to the final.

But the game slipped away as Croatia's quality started to tell.

Devastated fans watched as the game - and the World Cup - were lost.

York Press:

But there was pride in this young England squad and all they have achieved in Russia.

Football isn't coming home, but at least it's knocking on the door again.