WE were strong. We had grown. But following defeat by a superior Spain side in the Euro 2024 final, football is still resolutely refusing to come home.

Let's look on the bright side. England's run to the final may have been fairly straightforward in terms of the draw but even so, getting to the final was an achievement in itself.

Spain had been superb throughout the tournament and were worthy winners in Berlin.

Carlisle city centre was flooded with England fans for the match and the hospitality sector received a welcome boost. Check out our pictures below.

Despite the disappointment, the dream is still alive. Here's to USA 2026.

A group of friends at the Carlisle Utd fan zone ahead of the matchA group of friends at the Carlisle Utd fan zone ahead of the match (Image: Newsquest)

Layton, Nettie and Warren from CarlisleLayton, Nettie and Warren from Carlisle (Image: Newsquest)

Friends from Carlisle and GretnaFriends from Carlisle and Gretna (Image: Newsquest)

Full of hope - Jason, Tom, Ste, Vicki and Karl from CarlisleFull of hope - Jason, Tom, Ste, Vicki and Karl from Carlisle (Image: Newsquest)

Alan travelled down from Glasgow to sell England flags to fans.Alan travelled down from Glasgow to sell England flags to fans. (Image: Newsquest)

Dan Gibson from Carlisle, pictured at halftime. We're going to need substitutions, he suggested...Dan Gibson from Carlisle, pictured at halftime. 'We're going to need substitutions', he suggested... (Image: Newsquest)

Evie, Gemma and Rachel, who all work in Carlisle, pictured at halftime. There's been some exciting moments... we have hopes for the second half...Evie, Gemma and Rachel, who all work in Carlisle, pictured at halftime. 'There's been some exciting moments... we have hopes for the second half...' (Image: Newsquest)

England fans outside Ballers in CarlisleEngland fans outside Ballers in Carlisle (Image: Newsquest)

Joe, Gett and Ethan from Carlisle. 'We've got the talent.. we just need that confidence,' they said.Joe, Gett and Ethan from Carlisle. 'We've got the talent.. we just need that confidence,' they said. (Image: Newsquest)

Sam, Sammy and Samuel. 'I'm happy with the boys' performance,' said Samuel after the match. 'We played well. Not happy with the result, but what can you do?'Sam, Sammy and Samuel. 'I'm happy with the boys' performance,' said Samuel after the match. 'We played well. Not happy with the result, but what can you do?' (Image: Newsquest)