So, predictively gash to watch, but then what would we expect from a friendly against a third rate team (says the Peruvian commentator).
Joking aside, Some pluses and minuses to take from that game:
First XI:
Hart: Did everything when asked and was sharp off his line. No worries.
Cahill: Again sharp, read his fellow defenders mistakes to cover well. Useful up front on corners.
Jagielka: Didn't look yet 100% match fit, but the goal will give him a boost.
Baines: No issues, needs to get his deadball mojo back.
Johnson: Where do I start, caught in possession numerous times and looked a weak link.
Gerrard: Ineffectual; was unlucky to be booked.
Henderson: Felt he passed back too much.
Lallana: Looked busy, put himself around and a definite starter in Brazil.
Rooney: Again overrated, back to goal too much. Should be dictating the pace of the game.
Welbeck: Grew into the game but only look useful as a runner and ball-holder. Gave ball away too many times.
Sturridge: Took his premier league form into this game, great strike after missing a sitter earlier. Definite starter.
Subs:
Smalling: Didn't look too troubled but game was already won.
Wilshere: Some deft touches and looked sharper than I expected.
Milner: Same old same old boring Milner.
Sterling: Busy and was trying to get involved at every opportunity, though seemed a touch lightweight. Will start next friendly.
Barkley: Not enough time to impress but a couple of glimpses of what he could potentially bring to the table. Another who needs to play more minutes.
Stones: Again not much time to impress but irrelevant as a confirmed backup player.
England certainly need to give the ball away less and play with more momentum. However, I do wonder if Hodgson was trying to get them to play at a pace more akin to how it will need to be played in the heat and humidity. But my thoughts are that with some fast young players on the bench, there's not much need to conserve too much energy in the group stages.
Edited by user
31 May 2014 15:37:50
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