World Cup 2022: Norwich pub packed out as England beat Iran

But The Woolpack Inn and The Murderers were packed to the rafters as punters watched England kickstart their FIFA World Cup campaign in style by beating Iran 6-2.

Many students and staff had taken the day off to see Gareth Southgate's team get off to a flying start in Qatar. 

The Woolpack Inn was packed for England versus Iran (Image: Sonya Duncan)

Footie fan James Handford, 31, who was wearing his England shirt at The Woolpack in Golden Ball Street, said: "We were here for the European Championships so we knew how busy it would be.

"The atmosphere has been great. I think they will do really well.

Liam Waller, 29, James Handford, 31, and Ash Marlow, 34, watching the game (Image: Sonya Duncan)

"We never start a tournament 3-0 up at half-time."

Some fans were sat in the beer garden wearing t-shirts as if it was a summer tournament. 

Meanwhile, many others stood up to watch the game as the tables were full inside the boozers.

England fans celebrate one of the goals during the 6-2 win (Image: Sonya Duncan)

University of East Anglia student Rhys Constable, 22, said: "It's coming home. I love the World Cup whether it is winter or summer.

"Everyone from everywhere comes out to watch."

UEA students Matt Barness, 20, Rhys Constable, 22, and Ben Sambrook, 22 (Image: Ben Hardy)

His friend Ben Sambrook, 22, added: "I can't believe how busy it is for a Monday afternoon. It is rammed. You can't fit many more in here."

Goals from Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Raheem Sterling meant England fans were in good spirits as the drinks were flowing at half-time.

England fans at The Woolpack (Image: Sonya Duncan)

Punter Isaac Ward, 22, said: "Until we sat down to watch the game it did not feel like a World Cup. It was freezing. 

"I think we will get to the quarter-finals or semi-finals but this is a brilliant start." 

Henry Greaves, 21, Lyndon Ritchie, 20, and Isaac Ward, 22 (Image: Ben Hardy)

His friend Henry Greaves, 21, who was sporting an England 1990 World Cup third shirt, said: "It's been absolutely fantastic.

"Hopefully we keep it going and bring it home. I think we have a chance because of France's injury woes.

"We actually have a chance now."

Landlords will be preparing for a busy Friday night with England's next match kicking off against the United States of America at 7pm.

Celebrations in The Murderers (Image: Sonya Duncan)

The lead-up to the tournament has been shrouded in controversy given Qatar's human rights record.

England fans enjoy the 6-2 win in The Woolpack (Image: Sonya Duncan)

The Woolpack was packed for the game (Image: Sonya Duncan)

England versus Iran at The Woolpack at Monday lunchtime (Image: Sonya Duncan)

England fans in high spirits in The Woolpack (Image: Sonya Duncan)

England fans engrossed by the World Cup (Image: Sonya Duncan)

England fans celebrate in The Murderers (Image: Sonya Duncan)