I cannot believe some of the negative comments and scapegoating I'm seeing on the match thread.
That performance was more progressive and fluid than anything England accomplished in 2010 and 2012 combined. The Italians were extremely clinical, they had one and and a half genuine chances and scored twice. But they were also extremely lucky. England absolutely dominated them for long periods of that game.
Sterling and Sturrdige were both excellent.
The two CBs were both solid, as was Hart.
Gerrard will be somewhat unfairly scapegoated. For those in an emotional mood, I suggest watching it again - he produced 4 or 5 world class long balls and rarely gave the ball away. The notion that Carrick would be an upgrade is pure Manc fantasy.
The Liverpool fans will of course be scapegoating Rooney, who wasn't nearly as poor as people are saying. Rooney himself delivered some immense passes.
The only member of the starting eleven who looked shaky was Baines.
The only complaint I have with the manager is bringing on that utter Clown Wilshere. Wilshere's only contribution to the entire game was the worse in play pass the World Cup has seen so far, and giving the ball away which led to an Italian counter attack. Seriously, these days there is very limited evidence this guy is a better player than the likes of Jake Livermore. He should stick to what he's good at, spitting on taxi drivers etc.
Typical 606, so much unwarrented negatvity
posted on 15/6/14
Agreed. I am as critical of england as anyone. But they actually played football. Looked reasonably fluid going forward. It was the best england have looked in forever. I hope they continue with this sort of play.
It was a proper international match between two top sides. When was the last time england held their own against a clearly elite team? I haven't seen it in 15 years.
This italy side could go all the way. That is for sure. Strong defensive system, a striker who has it all and some truely world class play makers. We matched them and i think we get out the group.
posted on 15/6/14
Meh.
We tried to play a decent game with average players, shouldve approached it like the Dutch and just hit them on the break. Early holiday for the lads.
posted on 15/6/14
this is the spurs board.
isn't there an england board for international football bollox?
posted on 15/6/14
Shut up, Chronic.
England were unlucky to lose this game.
Sterling was a real find - played himself into the starters.
England will beat Uruguay and Costa Rica, and so advance.
posted on 15/6/14
Ted
England will home in just over a week.
posted on 15/6/14
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posted on 15/6/14
Italy did not play well but still found a way to beat England, I do not think England can play much better than they did which does not fill me with much confidence going forward.
posted on 16/6/14
RC,
I totally agree. Some people just judge a performance on the final score. Of course the final score is the most important thing but losing doesnt mean we were poor.
We were the better side out there and we played in a positive attacking way.
I think we'll be fine - and will beat Uruguay and Costa Rica.
The negativity is way OTT.