JUBILANT celebrations took hold at the Saints Pub as England fans marked the nation's biggest ever World Cup finals win in style.

There were hugs, fist pumps and rounds of applause for England's stars as they thrashed Panama 6-1 to book their place in the last 16 of this year's tournament in Russia.

Fans jumped for joy as Gareth Southgate's side saw hattrick hero Harry Kane lead his side to the win that secures their passage to the next stage.

Despite the optimism of most supporters in Southampton, a handful of fans said they still feared the memories of previous World Cups would come back to haunt the team.

Fresh from a last-minute winner against Tunisia in their first match, England started the match as they meant to go on – John Stones placing a header coolly into the corner to give the fans the start they wanted.

Supporters leapt up in joy to celebrate, which was the theme of the first 45 minutes.

The jeers of fans inside the Millbrook-based pub as both Kane and Stones were hauled to the floor then turned to cheers after a penalty was awarded.

The Spurs man then smashed home from the spot emphatically to banish any fears of throwing away a good start. Two quickly turned to three after Jesse Lingard's curling effort, which was met with hugs and rounds of applause inside the pub.

Despite some revellers then taking the chance to make the most of the afternoon sunshine, most stayed to watch England score their fourth and fifth goals, with another from the spot accompanied by a set-piece executed to perfection.

Though the heat got to the England players in Russia, it didn't get to the fans in Southampton as they continued to be as vocal as ever – even when Panama grabbed a consolation.

The performance left fans in little doubt that the team could go deep into the competition.

Ryan Fawson, of Millbrook, said the performance had given him even more hope.

The 40-year-old said: "I'm a believer, and this has given me the chance to dream. Bring on Belgium!"