'Sorry for your loss, but...' Italians gear up for semis

PROUD Italians said they were congratulated following Sunday night's football match, which saw England crash out of Euro 2012 after a penalty shootout.

Islanders flocked to the bars and pubs that were showing the game, which helped to boost trade, licensees said yesterday.

Former Absolute End owner Gastone Toffanello watched Italy beat England at the Rockmount with his son Chris and was dressed in 'Azzuri' hats, shirts and scarves.

He said there was a great atmosphere and he was even allowed to hang a 6ft Italian flag in the Castel bar to commemorate the win.