IT has been an unusual build-up to this year's FIFA World Cup in many different ways.

England playing their opening match against Iran during a rainy November early afternoon back home is one of the many unconventional aspects of this year's tournament.

There have been no summer beer gardens or weeks of excitement leading up to the World Cup following the end of the domestic season as there would normally be.

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However, the wet weather and strange time did not stop England fans in St Helens from turning out at venues to watch the Lions first match in Qatar against Iran.

While perhaps not in the usual numbers which would leave standing-room only in many pubs and bars, some fans did book the day off and don their England tops for the match.

St Helens Star: Mike Holt, Chris Meadows, Sam Irwin and Paul Doherty with the 'World Cup' at Ruskin todayMike Holt, Chris Meadows, Sam Irwin and Paul Doherty with the 'World Cup' at Ruskin today (Image: St Helens Star)

Among the venues in the town screening the game was The Wicket Bar & Grub at Ruskin Drive, where fans gathered to watch England's first group game earlier today.

There was even a model of a World Cup trophy on display on the bar for the occasion.

St Helens Star: Fans watching England on the TV screens at The WicketFans watching England on the TV screens at The Wicket (Image: St Helens Star)

Mark Hayes, general manager at Ruskin Sports Village, said: "It's a Monday afternoon and it's raining outside, it's not the usual excitement but we have got people in, and it is the excitement of the World Cup.

"We will have live music this Friday evening and the game against USA, which should be good."

Some customers admitted to it feeling a "bit weird" to be watching England's World Cup campaign start on a Monday afternoon.

But many had booked the day off and still enjoyed the thrills of the start of an international tournament, as England began their campaign with a 6-2 win.