England 0 France 4

Half Time 0-2

We started the game on zone defence to see how the French team would react. The boys were patient in defence and got a couple of counter attacks 1 on 1 with the goalkeeper. Half way through the first half loosing 2-0 with 2 soft goals (late reactions to the long shots) we changed to man to man restricted. Then we started to create more counter attacks. Half time arrived with us in control of the game.

Second half was a great performance of England we should have 2 penalties and we missed a direct free hit. England had a solid defence which allowed us increase the number of attacks.

The 2 goals conceded in last 2 minutes of the game the 3^rd goal did not cross the line and even the referee hesitated still to give the goal. The 4^th goal came from a penalty when the foul was committed outside the area as seen on video.

Overall performance was good against a very strong French team with 5 players from last year. Actually we played after the opening ceremony as they expected an easy run.

We came here to be competitive and the first comments from French, Portuguese and German coaches were very complementary regarding the style and standard of play.

Gordon Morrison said “This team is one of the best England under 17s I have seen for some time”

Now we are expecting a hard game against Portugal as well as Thursday’s Switzerland game. (Portugal beat Switzerland 2-1).

Carlos Amaral – Head Coach

Arthur Corr – Assistant Coach