Russia make England pay
Monday, May 14, 2007
Article summary
England 0-2 Russia Russia pulled off a major qualifying coup by beginning Group 3 with a win against the hosts.
Article body
Russia pulled off a major coup in Elite round Group 3 as goals from Pavel Mamaev and Artem Dzyuba earned them an opening 2-0 win against hosts England in Walsall.
Solid defending
A solid defence was the underpinning of the visitors' success, as England piled on the pressure at the Bescot Stadium. Danny Haynes carved out three presentable chances in the opening period, missing one and seeing the other two saved by Russian goalkeeper Sergei Borodin. However, Russia went in at the break a goal to the good as Mamaev's long-range shot after 31 minutes was deflected in.
Second attempt
The home side continued to do much of the running in the second period but their hopes of parity were dashed as Russia doubled their advantage on 74 minutes. England failed to effectively charge down a free-kick, allowing Dzyuba to drive the ball through the depleted wall and past goalkeeper Jamie Annerson at the second attempt. With all teams set to play three games, England next meet the Netherlands, who beat the Czech Republic 2-0 today, on Thursday while Russia take on the Czechs. Only the group winners will progress to July's finals.
