England Lose Control in Russia
18th October, 2007
England's hopes of reaching the finals of Euro 2008 have taken a severe bashing after losing 2-1 to Russia in Moscow. The result means that England's fate is no longer in their own hands. Russia now sit only two points behind England with a game in hand. Croatia are already virtually through so it is a race for the second spot. If Russia can win in Israel next month, they then only face part-time Andorra to secure their spot at the Euro 2008 finals and condemn England to a summer at home.
England started the game on the back foot, surrendering much of the possession to the hosts, with Joleon Lescott and Micah Richards struggling with the pressure as full backs. England got their only goal slightly against the run of play in the 29th minute, when Richards launched a long ball towards Michael Owen to flick-on to Rooney. Rooney then controlled the ball on his chest before smashing a volley past the helpess keeper to make it 1-0.
England looked to be in control, with some strong defending protecting Robinson’s goal well. However, in the 68th minute, Rooney was caught ball watching and gave away a controversial penalty for holding the shirt of Zurianov, which looked to be outside the penalty area. The penalty was then converted by substitute Pavluchenko. Only four minutes later, Robinson parried Berezutsky’s shot into the path of the substitute scorer, who then netted his second with a close range poke.
England did go on to take a more aggressive stance, but failed to muster any real chances, leaving boss Steve McLaren again under fire. England are now 13/8 to qualify for the Euro 2008 finals, whereas Croatia are 1/100, and Russia are 4/9. Use our free live odds comparison service to find the best Euro 2008 odds.
