Five Things We Learned from England 2-1 Hungary

August 12th, 2010 | by: Matilda | View Comments

Yes, despite the Great Moan of 2010, the match did still go ahead. And despite massive fears that no one would go, the attendance wasn’t too shabby either at 72,024. If you for some reason had better things to do than watch a friendly against Hungary here are the Official highlights:

1. South Africa 2010 was not the end of England’s world.
It’s true that the performance in South Africa was little short of a disaster. While I was as disappointed and upset as anyway, it is time to move on. We can only hope that Capello has realised and begun to fix his mistakes. This wasn’t a game for the books, but it was a new start, and an encouraging one at that.

2. Hart is way too good to be sitting on City’s bench.
Well I don’t want to jinx anything, but it looks as though England have a world class keeper again. He looked calm and confident throughout the whole game. The goal conceded was not really his fault either. But he, like every player who wants to stay at this level, needs game time to stay sharp and develop himself. Staying at City while Given’s there could spell “Ben Foster” for his career.

3. Conceding a Goal Against the 62nd Best Team in the World is Not the Worst.
Let’s try to keep some perspective here. This goal stemmed off one mistake by one player (looking at you Michael Dawson), came against the run of play, and didn’t actually go over the line. Not to mention, this goal really set a fire under England’s collective bum, and arguably inspired them (or should I say Gerrard) to score twice in 4 minutes. Speaking of…

4. Boy, that Stevie G. Can Play
I have not always been Gerrard’s biggest fan. A lot of times I disagree with his leadership style, and I think he’s overhyped. But last night did rather contradict that. He was a constant presence throughout the game, and scored two great, but very different goals. His first was a scorcher of a shot, perfectly placed, the kind that gets put on highlight reels that even non-footy fans watch. The second was a sneaky piece of individual skill, as he wound through the box and chipped it over the goalkeeper. I think he really flourishes in that central role behind the striker, and am dead pleased Capello put him there.

5. The Kids Are Alright
Both Kieran Gibbs and Jack Wilshere made their debuts last night, ansd they were well, alright. Neither of them had a bad game by any means, but neither had a stunner either. That being said, although he is less hyped, between the two Gibbs looked the better player. We all as England fans have to be careful not to overhype them. They still have a lot of growing up to do.

Do come by tomorrow, as the infamous Ethan will be posting an interview with Rafael Honigstein. It’ll be good. Or if it’s not, it’ll at least be mad enough to be entertaining. Promise