Ukraine 1 England 0
England: Green, Johnson, Ferdinand, Terry, Ashley Cole, Lennon (James 15), Carrick, Lampard, Gerrard (Milner 46), Rooney, Heskey (Carlton Cole 72).
Subs Not Used: Bridge, Upson, Barry, Agbonlahor.
The stadium in Dnipropetrovsk was a cauldron in what was a vital game for the Ukraine. It was an intimidating atmosphere with flares and a partisan crowd that collectively urged the Ukraine to victory, allowing them to be favorites for the runner up place in the group at the expense of Croatia.
The complexion of the game was set in the 14th minute, when after hesitancy by Rio Ferdinand allowed the Ukrainian striker through on goal. Robert Green came out and brought the player down, thus denying a goal scoring opportunity. The referee awarded a penalty and Green became the first England goalkeepr to be sent off in history.
James came on replacing Lennon. The penalty was missed. Could this be a let off? Ukraine were persistent, rugged and competitive. A rocket shot by Nazarenko in the 29th minute deflected off Ashley Cole’s head (probably gaining speed with the deflection) blasted into the England goal and really can be described as unstoppable.
England took time adapting to playing with 10 men. Gerrard replaced at half time due to injury by James Milner, gave the England team some shape that allowed England to battle hard. It was not enough to find an equaliser, and the Ukraine created the better of the chances in the game. Cole came on for Heskey and showed some adeptness, but the 10men could only battle hard. Ukraine deserved the victory through dogged determination and a home crowd that expected nothing less than victory.
Maybe this was a timely defeat. The defence was a little frail, though the team did well to limit the scoring, but they were unable to return a spectacular result. It should be stated though David James did make one phenomenal save and his ability should never be underestimated.
This result should remind us all of what can happen in a football match. Carefully thought out game plans can be ruined by a the loss of a player through a sending off. Adapting to a new game plan, and playing for most of the match with 10 men is a hazard of any game. At least we should recognise our frailties and approach every game with humility. We have qualified and in the summer of 2010 we will be playing with the big boys. They most certainly will not be believing that they are unable to beat England.
