Choke

From Frikipedia

An inherent English sporting trait, namely the unerring ability to snatch defeat from the sickening jaws of victory.

The choke has been employed in Ashes series, football World Cups and by Tim "quarter final" Henman at Wimbledon to great effect in recent years, and the nation is proud of the ability of each and every one for the tactical and patriotic manner in which they manage to set up a virtually unloseable position, only to fall flat on their faces.

The reason for the choke is the vehement belief by all British sportsmen and women that It's not the winning, it's the taking part that counts.

See also: Montreal Canadiens