Cole claims England clincher

Joe Cole's second-half goal was enough for England to defeat a determined Wales at the Millennium Stadium and remain within two points of FIFA World Cup qualifying Group 6 leaders Poland - though Sven-Göran Eriksson's side have a game in hand.

Not convincing
Eriksson deploted a new 4-5-1 formation, Wayne Rooney cast in a lone striker's role with Michael Owen suspended but, although they controlled most of the first half, it took an outstanding save from Paul Robinson to keep it scoreless at the break.

Rooney frustration
Wales kept a good shape and were quick to get players round the ball. Consequently Rooney got frustrated and often came deep to try and get involved. He had one outstanding chance early on after Steven Gerrard had set him up but Danny Coyne parried well.

Welsh chances
Wales had barely created a chance in the corresponding game last October but three followed for them here in quick succession after the half-hour mark, starting with a Richard Duffy effort that he sliced disappointingly wide. Ashley Cole then did well to head clear as John Hartson prepared to pounce at the far post and four minutes later another expert Ryan Giggs cross was this time won by Hartson only for Robinson to respond brilliantly.

Cole winner
At the other end, Coyne denied Shaun Wright-Phillips but was finally beaten in the 54th minute after the Chelsea FC winger guided the ball into club-mate Cole's path, and his shot diverted in off the head of Danny Gabbidon.

Late chance
Wales fought until the end to grab an equaliser, their last chance being a Giggs effort blocked by Rio Ferdinand, but the visitors held on to claim three vital points. England, with Owen available, visit Northern Ireland on Wednesday looking to keep the pressure on Poland - who welcome the fifth-placed Welsh.