England gain revenge on Croatia

Posted on | September 11, 2008 | No Comments

England took revenge after Euro 2008 exit, producing the first ever home defeat in qualifications for Croatia.
England came after a 2-0 victory against Andorra and despite wining  there were some critics.

theo walcott

Fabio Capello made some changes compared to the team that played against Andorra with Wes Brown, Rio Ferdinand, Emile Heskey and Joe Cole came to replace Glen Johnson, Steward Downing, Joleon Lescott and Jermain Defoe.
Fabio Capello prefered an attacking formation with Rooney and Heskey in front and  Joe Cole and Walcott supporting them from the flanks.
The most notable move was Theo Walcott keeping instead of David Beckham.
The Arsenal teenager repaid the faith that Fabio Capello put in him with an outstanding performance. Walcott manage to score a magnificent hat-trick.  Walcott opened the score in the 25th min, which was his first goal for England. Both teams had good chances to score but the half time score remained 0-1.
Just after the start in 53rd min, Robert Kovac was sent of after a bad chalange at Joe Cole. Joe Cole had to be substitute and Jermain Jenas came in to replace him. It took only 6 min for Walcott to score a similar goal. Wayne Rooney and again Theo Walcott scored for England while the substitute Mandzukic scored the consolation goal.
This was the first competitive hat-trick for an England player after Michael Owen scored three in 2001 against Germany.
This performance will probably reduce the chances for David Beckham to start any other game for England.
Beckham did came on in the latest minutes and earned his 105th cap for England, three less that the most capped outfild player Bobby Moore.
Walcott declared that he is very happy with the win and that he must thank to David for the good advices that he gave him. Also Fabio Capello was very pleased with Walcott performance hoping he will play the same every match.

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