Doni saved the initial effort but was powerless to stop him side-footing the rebound in from close range as Roma's defenders appealed desperately for a combination of handball and offside.

BBC: Roma 3-1 Chelsea

But Wiggins' winning ride, coming amid a two-day flurry of British medals on the water and in the saddle, appeared to be the moment when London and the wider nation decided to stop worrying and enjoy the party for which they were, after all, footing the bill.

CNN: Wiggins' victory brings the Games back to the people