Gerrard saves England to overcome Hungary
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England's Steven Gerrard receives a standing ovation as he leaves the pitch during their international friendly soccer match against Hungary at Wembley Stadium in London August 11, 2010. [Xinhua/Reuters Photo] |
England captain Steven Gerrard scored twice in the second half on Wednesday, leading the Lions to a 2-1 victory over Hungary in a friendly held at Wembley.
England, failing to convert their possession into goal during the first half, suffered for Phil Jagielka's own goal 17 minutes after the interval. But Liverpool captain Gerrard filled the gap seven minutes later with a powerful long-range shot, then pushed England ahead by slotting home four minutes after his opening goal.
England began promisingly as Wayne Rooney sent the ball into net after three minutes, but the score was ruled out for the Manchester United striker being offside. Manchester City winger Adam Johnson then squandered a great chance in the 13th minute as he blasted Theo Walcott's backpass over the bar.
Walcott, who was not included in the World Cup squad, showed his great form in the first half. It was the 21-year-old Arsenal hopeful that earned a freekick for England after 33 minutes, witnessing Gerrard's fine shot was saved by the Hungarian goalkeeper Gabor Kiraly with one hand.
England, hugely disappointing their fans with a last 16 finish at the World Cup, were booed while leaving the pitch 0-0 for the interval, then suffered more as Hungarian skipper Zoltan Gera's shot was deflected home by defender Phil Jagielka in the 62nd minute.
It's time for Gerrard to encourage his younger teammates as the 30-year-old skipper fired home a long-range shot in the 69th minute. Only four minutes later, the midfielder added a score with a low shot in the box.
Gerrard enjoyed standing ovation when he was substituted by the 18-year-old England team debutant Jack Wilshere with eight minutes remaining. He is going to lead the Three Lions to host Bulgaria on the same pitch on September 3, beginning their European Championships qualification journey.
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