If you were out and about on the Island before the Super Bowl on Sunday, you saw ample evidence that you don’t need a ferry reservation to be a Patriots fan. A father and child dressed in matching Patriots jerseys wandered the aisles of the grocery store. A woman buying her latte sported a windbreaker with the team logo splashed across the back.

Just like mainlanders, we are fans. And lest we had forgotten, Sunday’s Super Loss hammered home the burden that can carry with it in these parts, regardless of what side of the water you live on.

It seemed that New England sports fans had gotten past the lovable losers phase. During all those years when the Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics and Patriots were deprived of championships, it became almost a badge of honor to be a heartbroken Boston fan. Then with the new millennium our teams began piling up enough world titles to give local sports enthusiasts the mother of all makeovers. The losers became winners, and we all went along for the ride.

But now — on the cusp of Valentine’s Day no less — New England fans seem to be trending back toward heartbreak. And it hurts.

On Feb. 14, New England sports fans will need an extra supply of Godivas and roses. And most importantly, a giant hug. Make that a big hug.