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England embrace enviroment!

A last-minute decision saw me go from club to country in one day. Making the short journey to Wembley stadium, to see England face Ivory coast. A friendly before the major tournament in December.


Starting the game was an offside for the host. Jude Bellingham trying a through ball, which ended up at the feet of Ollie Watkins. Who was quick to be called by the officials. Moments later the three lions had their first chance. Right footed shot from Declan Rice, after eight minutes of play. The effort being blocked. Going forward again, fellow Irish youth international Grealish had an opportunity. Firing from the left-hand side of the box. Keeping the pressure up England were back in front of goal. Tonight’s visiting keeper comfortably able to catch Jude Bellingham’s shot on sixteen minutes. Following a great passage of play, thanks to Raheem Sterling. Ivory coast first chance came two minutes later. Cornet through ball to Gradel being ruled offside. Another opportunity fell to Grealish, as he forced the keeper into a diving save on his left-hand side. Finally breaking the deadlock, Ollie Watkins found the back of the net on thirty minutes. Shooting from very close range. Assisted by Raheem Sterling, who put a low cross into the box. As we approached the final five minutes of the half Serge Aurier saw red. A second bookable offense reducing his side to ten men, and removing any temp from the match. Setting up the boy from Brent to double the home sides lead. Turning assister to scorer on forty-five minutes. Right footed tap in from the centre of the box, following a Jack Grealish assist.


At the break England were easily ahead. Comfortable from start to finish, operating in cruise control. The ivory coast failing to make an impression. When play resumed for the second period it proved to be a dull affair. Guest player Kessie shooting from kick off, the only memorable moment. Shortly followed by a penalty waved away by the officials having previously awarded it. The next goal coming in injury time, as Mings tapped in from a corner. Sealing the victory.


In conclusion the first half was a dominant host performance, whereas the second lacked quality. Despite four changes being made from the bench. The match seeing thousands of spectators leave early. Including a handful who walked out on fifty minutes, from the bottom tier of the stadium.


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