Congratulations to the England U-21’s, who have progressed to the European Championship finals after beating Sweden – on penalties!! Yey!
Not that is should’ve even got to penalties, after England were 3-0 up by half-time, through strikes from Martin Cranie, Nedum Onuoha and an unfortunate own goal.
Cue complete complacency, and a remarkable fightback from the Swedes, who levelled the game at 3-3.
Usually, us English fans would think the worst; thrown away a 3 goal lead, against the host team, facing penalties to take us into the final…only one winner right?
How refreshing then, that the Under 21’s showed incredible character and spirit to defy the odds – and thoughts of the majority of us cynical fans – and come through as winners, in a thrilling 5-4 shootout. Five times previously, England have fallen at the semi-final stage in the competition – but not this time.
It now leaves us licking our lips at the thought of an England vs Germany final, after the side from Deutschland beat Italy 1-0 in the other semi-final. A perfect final…..that’s if we win!
On a more sour note, three players from the squad look set to miss out on the final; Frazier Campbell saw red against Sweden after a desperate lunge on Mikael Lustig; and both Gabby Agbonlahor and Joe Hart picked up a yellow card each, ruling then out too.
Hart was booked after venturing off his line during the shoot-out itself, and Pearce has said he intends to appeal. Let’s hope he’s successful, as England will need him between the sticks against the Germans.
Good luck England, we’re all behind you! Go out and show the seniors how it’s done!
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