|
Arriverderci Italia!!
This was a rather new experience for me! I don't mean going to the Abbey Stadium but in watching the National Game XI play a competitive international fixture. Upon arrival I didn't really know what to expect. Once the national anthems from both nations had blasted out around the ground, there was a definite feeling of anticipation and excitement amongst the fans who had turned up. Apart from a small area in the Habin Stand all other sections of the ground were open. Indeed several visiting supporters who had congregated behind the goal in the away end were waving large replicas of the Italian green, white and red tricolor flag and could be heard chanting 'Italia, Italia' to add to the atmosphere. To my right I could see several travellers wearing the colours of their respective Conference League clubs from where their heroes had been selected.
It was no surprise that these footballers represented a crop of the best young talent outside the Championship; their superior skills, control and fitness were evident. The passing was accurate and the pace of the game was very quick. For the record England made a perfect start when York City's Andy Bishop put the home side ahead after only four minutes. After George Boyd (Stevenage Borough FC) had already forced Davide Bassi (US Massese) into a save at full stretch, Bishop latched onto a through ball from Ian Craney (Accrington Stanley FC) to finish coolly, scoring his second goal in as many internationals. Italy equalised on 33 minutes.Carlo Emmanuele Ferrario (Calcio Lecco), wearing golden boots, was the scorer when the ball managed to squirm underneath Woking 'keeper Schwan Jalal.
In the second half substitute Gary Roberts (Accrington Stanley FC) drilled a ball to George Boyd who rose highest to head the ball down and from six yards and Chris Blackburn (Morecambe FC) took the deftest of touches before rifling home from an acute angle to restore England's lead. On 85 minutes Boyd sent Roberts racing down the left and his cross to the far post was met by Mackail-Smith (Dagenham & Redbridge FC), a half-time substitute, who rifled home to the delight of the vocal home crowd of 3,025.
A glossy 16 page programme produced by the FA was issued for the game which cost £5 for a ticket. The usual fare of cuisine was on offer and Imust confess that Mrs W and I thoroughly enjoyed the the large bacon filled rolls smothered in tomato sauce. A great night out and a wonderful experience. Thoroughly recommended.
England:
Schwan Jalal (Paul Jones - 86mins), Chris Blackburn, Tamika Mkandawire, Kieran Charnock, David Perkins (captain), Carl Baker (Craig Mackail-Smith), Michael Carr (David Bridges - 62mins), Ian Craney, George Boyd, Jon Shaw (Gary Roberts - 55mins), Andy Bishop (Ryan Austin - 86mins)
FGIF Rating 4*. |
