England stutter along
Posted: Jun 18 2010
England managed a goalless draw with a plucky Algeria on a beautiful night for football in Cape Town.
With Wayne Rooney struggling with his first touch the whole night and Steven Gerrard not his usual imposing self in midfield, England’s legions of fans left the magnificent stadium disappointed.
The match lacked genuine scoring chances although in the second half Emile Heskey got into a good position, but should have fired in his shot quicker.
A late charge through the Algerian midfield saw Jermaine Defoe drive a shot over the bar, which signalled a frustrating night for England.
The first half was a tactical game with very little risk taken from either side.
Heskey headed over at the far post and both Frank Lampard and Gerrard drew saves from the goalkeeper, but never really troubled him.
For Algeria their inspirational wide midfielder Karim Ziani shot wide after breaking free once Gareth Barry was robbed of the ball high up the field.
But overall Algeria gave a good fight and at times looked very capable on the ball, combining with each other better than England on the whole.
84
: 2010-06-18 22:53
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