Mixed feelings for Pearce

England U21 boss happy with win

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 10th October 2008

Pearce Stuart

Pearce: Satisfied

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Stuart Pearce admitted he was not completely happy following England Under 21s' 3-2 victory over Wales.

Wales opened the scoring through Simon Church at Ninian Park before David Wheater equalised for England.

Adam Johnson's strike was then cancelled out by a second Church goal before Gabriel Agbonlahor netted a winner in the second half.

The result leaves England in a good position ahead of Tuesday's return leg at Villa Park, with a place in the European Championship at stake.

However, Pearce has warned his players that the tie is far from over.

"Parts I was happy with, parts I wasn't," Pearce told Sky Sports 1.

"Scoring three goals on our travels, yes I'm happy. To win the game against a very, very good side, I'm pleased.

"I thought we ceded too much ground in certain areas and concede a couple of goals.

"As a learning curve, it was a fantastic night of football.

"But it's not dead, we have to go to Villa Park and our only focus will be trying to win the game."

Wales boss Brian Flynn was happy that his side had contributed to an excellent match.

He said: "It was a fantastic game, great to be involved in.

"The players will have learned a hell of a lot, it was great experience for them."