Superman strikes again

Steven Gerrard struck one of the sweetest football shots in the world cup to score England's second goal against Trinidad and Tobago.

After 82 minutes of frustration and deadlock, David Beckham put a superb cross in the path of Peter Crouch and a good finish ensured that England had their first goal of the match. Seven minutes later, Gerrard hit an absolutely unstoppable trademark shot from outside the box which brought England the eventual 2-0 victory.

There were other chances which did not go in, Frank Lampard being the most unlucky. He had 8 shots on goal, none of which went in.

The statistics were lopsided in favour of England, who maintained 67% possession, had more corners and more shots on goal than T&T. The only statistics which were higher for T&T were the number of fouls committed and the number of yellow cards shown.

This match showed how a team can put a lot of people in their own box to defend. Every single missed opportunity showed that T&T put as many as eight people behind the ball to defend. It finally took a fabulous delivery from Beckham and a simply superb finish by Gerrard to finish the game.

Wayne Rooney came on late in the game and showed a lot of pace and energy when he came on. But it was Aaron Lennon who showed a lot more influence on the right flank, significantly boosting the pace of the England play.

As England sits on top of their group, they await their next match in five days with Sweden. A lot of things will come into play, points wise and group A positioning, which will decide how England wants to play the Swedes.

Another interesting titbit. This is the first time England has won it's first two world cup group matches. I hope this run concludes with my team lifting the cup.

Go England!