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TODAY'S OTHER NEWS

Kane so able but England so frustrating! Our guest reviewer’s verdict...

So what did you think of the match? A deserved 2-1 win or a lucky victory snatched from the jaws of a draw?

We’ve got an industry figure reviewing each match along England’s journey and we’re delighted to say Paul James, founder of Property Road, is our first pundit.

Property Road is one of the UK’s leading independent property websites for consumers, focused on educating buyers, sellers, investors, and homeowners on all things property related.

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Here’s Paul’s verdict on England’s first showing, against Tunisia - it’s a great review but if you disagree with his assessment or want to add your view of the match, please let us know in the comments section below.

Paul writes: I’ve watched most of the games since Russia kicked things off with a 5-0 victory over Saudi Arabia, and I can honestly say England should not fear anyone this tournament. 

Unfortunately, based on this performance, few teams should be scared of England either.

The first 10 minutes showed plenty of promise. England’s attacks had more bite than the millions of midges that had swarmed the stadium. 

England were more than good value for the lead when Harry Kane poked home after a good save by the Tunisian goalkeeper. Looking in control, England did what only England can do - throw it away.

A stray arm from Walker was swiftly punished and the resulting penalty expertly dispatched. From that point on, England lacked fluidity. 

In fact, until Harry Kane popped up again in added time, I’m struggling to recall a clear-cut chance for England in the second half.

There were few standout performances. 

Even Harry Kane had a quiet game, despite taking both goals well. Another Harry, this time Maguire, had an up and down game. Marauding runs forward were punctuated with momentary lapses in concentration.

It wasn’t a terrible performance by any means, and a win is a win, but England will have to improve if they harbour any ambitions of progressing beyond the last 16. 

Paul James, Property Road.

Don’t forget, there will be a review of England’s next match, when they meet Panama on Sunday - hang on to your hats for that one, and the review will be on EAT on Monday.

Until then...come on England!

Poll: How did England do?

PLACE YOUR VOTE BELOW

  • Rob Hailstone

    A young squad with one (deserved) win under their belt. This match experience was much needed and should give them confidence. Like a boxer progressing through the ranks (Panama next I believe), they should improve game after game.

  • Jon  Tarrey

    Have to disagree. I thought England played very well, especially in the first half, and kept going against an obdurate, time-wasting, crafty and clever Tunisia team, who knew how to slow the game down and push the referee's buttons. The referee, by the way, was awful - and barely gave England anything.

    The second half was much tougher, but in the first half England could have been out of sight after 30 minutes. A questionable penalty aside, England dominated the game and were never really in danger of conceding. Trippier had an impressive game at right wing back, Henderson was excellent in the middle, Stones and Maguire were a constant threat from corners, Alli, Lingard and Sterling were bright and lively, Rashford and RLC offered something different when they entered the fray, and Kane did what Kane does best.

    A very promising performance all told, and a great start for England to what has been an excellent World Cup so far. Even an old pessimist like me is starting to develop a little bit of hope. Football's coming home! (Maybe, possibly, probably not).

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