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England have taken another step forward to qualification for Euro 2012 today, where they defeated Wales 2-0 in Cardiff at the Millenium Stadium.
It promised to be a heated battle from the opening presentation, with both set’s of fans attempting to drown out the other’s national anthem. It was a packed Millenium Stadium, but Wales were without their talisman Gareth Bale. Aaron Ramsey led out the Welsh team as the youngest ever captain for his side, and put in a fine display after a lengthy injury picked up with Arsenal last season. No doubt Arsenal will be smiling at his return.
But it was England who would have the biggest smile on the day, wasting no time to get involved early on. England have been on the wrong end of criticism as of late, but the team showed no signs of resentment toward each other and put in a good overall performance on the day. Aston Villa winger Ashley Young put in a fine first half performance, winning England a penalty inside of seven minutes, which Frank Lampard converted. It was Lampard’s first goal for England since September of 2009.
England refused to take their foot off the gas and Glen Johnson rifled a pinpoint pass upfield to Ashley Young who spotted his club compatriot Darren Bent making his run towards goal and passed in for Bent to slam home. It was Bent’s third goal in as many shots on target for England. Leading 2-0 at halftime, the game was virtually won. Aaron Ramsey tried desperately to swing things around for Wales, making some fantastic runs, but seemed at times to try too hard and came up empty handed.
Another young Gunner making a name for himself was Jack Wilshere. Wilshere has only just begun his England career, but looked like a classy veteran today. His ability on the ball and vision for a pass are quickly making him a fan favorite, and he is sure to be a pivotal part in Englands midfield for years to come. West Ham’s Scott Parker also put in a man-of-the-match display, and though he is 30, his performace today could cement him in England’s midfield for the near future.
England now sit on 10 points in Group G, ahead of Montenegro on goal difference, who have scored five goals less. England play Ghana on Tuesday at Wembley Stadium.
Tags: Aaron Ramsey, Ashley Young, darren bent, England, Ghana, Jack Wilshere, Millenium Stadium, Scott Parker, Wales, Wembley Stadium
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