England are in another Euro semi-final, this time facing the Netherlands. The memory of their penalty shootout loss in the 2020 final against Italy lingers. Back then, on home soil, their victories were more emphatic, and the nation was optimistic. Their path to the semi-finals has been less convincing this time around, leading to a more cautious mood. Gone are the scenes of widespread flag-waving of 2020. But some Abingdon businesses have the flags out.

Topsport has had a Euro2024 window display since May.

The Blue Boar have their England flags out.

Since Jamaica is not in the competition, Pappy’s ‘Back of Yard’ is backing England.

Thanks to Pete for this …

Three generations set off from Abingdon: Wendy & Pete with son Christopher & nine-year-old grandson James.

Nine-year-old James was impressed by his first sight of the vast arena.

This picture was before the game so I can’t imagine what James looked like after the game.

Oxford United secured a thrilling victory against Bolton Wanderers, winning 2-0, marking their return to the second tier of the English Football League after a 25-year absence. The jubilant Oxford fans could be heard around Abingdon, after their return, shouting “Yell-ows!” and “We’re going up!”

Topsport on Wootton Road will close early at noon this Saturday to allow Steve, the owner, and his family to cheer on Oxford United in the League One playoff final against Bolton at Wembley!

Steve apologises for any inconvenience caused. A lifelong Oxford United supporter, he remembers their 1986 Milk Cup victory (he still proudly sports the horned hat!). He’s seen the Yellows through thick and thin, from the old First Division’s highs to the Conference League’s lows, and back up to League One.

Due to centralised stock sales from the Oxford United shop at the Kassam this year, Topsport cannot get Oxford United merchandise like scarves, hats, and rosettes, and so there is not a lot of yellow in the window. But it does say after his apology about closing early, ‘Come on You Yellows!’

His colleague Tim has made one window display for the all-Manchester FA Cup Final, and the other for EURO 2024, where England compete.

Topsport will be 50 years old in November 2025.