Nick Collins looks at what England need to learn from their 1-1 draw with Russia at Euro 2016
Sunday 12 June 2016 21:58, UK
So the wait goes on for England to win their opening game at the European Championships. For the fifth time running, going back to 1996, England scored first, but could not hold on.
Their opening match record is now played 9, won 0, drawn 5, lost 4.
This was two points dropped, after a performance which at times was exhilarating. It was reminiscent of Euro 2004 in Lisbon when England led the defending champions France going into injury time, only for it all to go wrong.
Wayne Rooney played that night up front. This time he was England's midfield general, using all of his experience to support Eric Dier and Dele Alli, as well as providing the platform from which England could attack. He looked a natural in his new role.
Jack Wilshere replaced him near the end, and did his cause no harm with his performance, but it seems unlikely Roy Hodgson will change his midfield trio.
In defence, Joe Hart did not have a great deal to do - the header which beat him was special. Gary Cahill and Chris Smalling subdued Russia's central attacking threat, while full backs Kyle Walker and Danny Rose caused numerous problems with their surging runs forward. They both have speed to burn, but may be tested more by Wales.
Up front, it was a mixed report. Adam Lallana produced some brilliant touches, the Russians were unsettled whenever he had the ball and his work-rate was terrific. However, he missed two very good chances in the first half, which could have completely changed the game.
Raheem Sterling took every opportunity he could to run at Russia, but his decision-making could have been better and the fans were growing frustrated with him towards the end. Jamie Vardy on the left is one possible change Hodgson might contemplate.
Harry Kane was a little subdued by his standards. He continued to take the set-pieces, before being replaced by Rooney and then Dier - with devastating effect! Daniel Sturridge may have to wait a little longer to start.
The lessons England must learn:
1) score when you are on top
2) be more ruthless in front of goal
3) defend better at set-pieces
England trail Wales by two points, but can still finish top of Group B - if they repeat this performance and add a couple of goals!
Catch up with all the latest Euro 2016 news with 'Euro Breakfast' each morning on Sky Sports News HQ from 6am
