Euro 2012 - England v Italy

I am sitting here at 10:45pm, my face stained with mascara and the tissue box empty. I regret the caffeine. But I don't regret wearing my shirt with pride. These three lions will remain in my heart forever. Despite our atrocious abilities when it comes to penalties.

If I am honest, deep, down, bottom of my heart honest... Italy deserved to win. For the full ninety minutes they were the superior side and England were weakened as main man Pirlo controlled the game. His passes and involvement with the game allowed the Italians possession, cancelling out any bright sparks in the Three Lions.

Then there was the man they call Super Mario. He went without a goal- but it's an absolute wonder how he managed that! He was all over the English defence, with his fast feet and skill. His fury was clear as he lashed out on the posts, but still he persisted. Though it came to nothing, he is one man who can walk away knowing he gave his absolute all.

Although we can be quick to sing Italy's praises, there were a few notable Englishman.

Joe Hart deserves a huge round of applause for his performance not just in this game, but the entirety of the tournament. He has made stunning saves and been our saviour upon many occasions.

John Terry actually decided to turn up tonight. Despite his usage of Chelsea tactics ('parking the bus' as it's lovingly known), him throwing himself in the way was handy to deny the likes of Balotelli.

Glen Johnson was one of the few who had another decent game. I was left fuming when his shot in the opening minutes was saved by Buffon. However he has been amazing both defensively and when attacking.

Steven Gerrard has been my English man of the tournament. Or rather, my English King. He was given the armband and in true Captain Fantastic fashion, led by example. He was at the front line of every battle, every pass and move an encouragement to the lads. Take a bow son, you deserve it.

Players aside, there was high tension leading to this game. Unsurprisingly, it was all based around penalties. To add more fuel to the fire, the addition of time to the game heightened it all. At this point I would just like to hug each and every person who like me, suffered a series of heart attacks and heart palpitations. We live to probably see history repeat itself because at this rate, it's going to take a miracle to solve our penalty problems.

With our Euro 2012 hopes in tatters, I am still wearing my England shirt. All I need know is 3 Lions themed tissues. Kleenex, are you listening?

Article by Faz