Andorra U21 0-1 England U21: Tom Davies heads Young Lions to narrow win
Tuesday 10 October 2017 23:00, UK
England U21s laboured to a 1-0 win over Andorra U21s thanks to a Tom Davies header in their Euro 2019 Qualifier.
The Everton midfielder headed England in front early in the second half, but the Young Lions failed to put the game to bed despite dominating possession.
New York City FC's Jack Harrison was handed a start by head coach Aidy Boothroyd, while five Everton players were in the starting XI.
Victory solidifies England's place at the top of Group Four, having picked up three wins and a draw from their opening four games.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin should have put England ahead early on, but the Everton striker skied his following Harrison's low cross.
England controlled the game in Andorra la Vella, but they failed to break the deadlock before half-time as Kieran Dowell and Kyle Walker-Peters sent efforts wide of the mark.
Seven minutes into the second half, England had their opener, with 19-year-old Davies heading in from Kyle Walker-Peters' cross.
Calvert-Lewin had the ball in the back of the net after following up on Ademola Lookman's saved attempt, but he was flagged for offside as England continued their search for a second.
Lookman and substitute Dominic Solanke were denied by Francisco Pires late on, while the host did come close to an equaliser at the death, but Roger Nazzaro's effort was blocked on the line.
Man of the match - Ainsley Maitland-Niles
The Arsenal midfielder may have captained the Young Lions to a narrow victory, but he impressed in the middle of the park, keeping the tempo up and ensuring England stayed on the attack. The 20-year-old also got back when required and looked equally as impressive on defensive duty.
What's next?
England U21s' final match of 2017 is a trip to Ukraine in their fifth Euro 2019 Qualifier. The November 10 clash will also signal the halfway stage in Group Four.
