QUELLE horreur. The expression of stunned disbelief worn by a York football fan in our front page photograph tonight reflects the face of the nation.

The clumsy speed at which England exchanged victory for defeat against France last night was a new nightmare. But we should be used to this dismal feeling after the opening match of a tournament.

The French farce is over. England need to look forward. We would be best to learn a lesson from our opponents last night, and greet this defeat with a Gallic shrug and a "C'est la vie..."

Updated: 12:02 Monday, June 14, 2004