I've spoken with several neutral football fans, and the overall opinion was that they expected a little more out of England, but that England hardly played a horrific game, barring the calamitous goal that was afforded to the Americans by the Goalkeeper Green. Needless to say it was not the game England was hoping for, but as Fabio pronounced before the game, "It's important not to lose the first game." The Italian motto of not losing placed before winning has actually given the Italians a couple of World Cups. Often criticized for their defensive play, the Italian national team knows how to pull off the victories and ties it needs, when it needs it. That being said, I'll put my faith in Mr. Capello our trusty Italian coach.
There were some things that scared us true England fans to the core however, and that was the early desperation, or what looked like desperation to pin point Crouchy's head. Although a sound tactic and sometimes necessary option, it was only months ago when Mr. Capello was talking about the change in England. No longer looking to the long ball, he said, much rather playing the passing game. Controlling the pitch English style eh?
What happened to the memories of a brilliant qualification round? Ok, I know I am beginning to sound a little like a Guardian blogger here, but hey, where is the Manchester United, or Chelsea style attack and pressure? Some of you may be thinking yeah there was, that indomitable character shinning through during the last 10 minutes. I heard a few comments to the effect that "we need to play like we did in the last 10, that was brilliant!! " I agree wholeheartedly, only trouble is, is that football is a 90 + minute game. Point being obvious, its time for the whole team to play as if they have the energy and motivation of Wayne Rooney.
Despite not having the most brilliant of games, the Wazza (as he is often referred to by his team mates, in reference to Gazza, Paul Gascoigne, and their similar stature and style of play), still put his heart into the match as he does every game. The same cannot be said for all the England players, and it is this main issue that needs to change to move forward, changing the psychology of English football forever.
The determination and belief that Capello and Rooney show needs to be drilled into the others, hopefully Beckham may also help bring some of that victorious spirit back into the minds of the English Squad, for it is well needed. On paper, we all know what England is a power house who's time has still not come, on the field however we are looking like a mediocre squad. It is high time that the England players begin to feel the strength of their team, for the quality is there. What it comes down to is belief.
We, the Fans of England still believe, do you lads? Let's hold our heads high face the future with belief in our hearts and stand firm in delivery of the goods, the only trophy worth singing about...
The WORLD CUP. Come on England, we still believe, its your turn now!!
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