Green's Unforgivable Slip Lets USA Off The Hook

England's first match in the 2010 World Cup started on a high note but unfortunately ended with a whimper and a disappointing draw. While watching the game, it was hard to not feel that there is a need for a world class second striker alongside Rooney.

As good as Emile Heskey is in linking up play, he cannot hit a barndoor, hence the dilemma facing Capello. I say sacrifice the link play with attacking potency. The option of playing Gerrard as the second striker off Rooney may prove a better attacking risk. Let's face it, scoring goals are what wins tournaments and therefore, it is crucial that England must find their scoring form soon. Otherwise, opposing teams like the USA will just crowd out Rooney and snuff out England's only scoring threat.

Gerrard marked his England captaincy in the World Cup with a well-taken goal. He was everywhere yesterday, trying his best to win the match for England. He covered the most distance (11 km) among the English players and was also most involved in the match with 451 seconds of high activity time.

 

Rob Green however, should blame himself for England's inability to get three points. A routine save from Clint Dempsey turned into the worst blunder of his England career. You could see the disappointment felt by the England players when the ball rolled into the net. It's as though they knew they hadn't the firepower to score more.

Joe Hart definitely should start in the next match, after all it will be a nice introduction to World Cup action for the youngster. His assured goalkeeping will help build confidence in England's back four.

I was surprised that Capello chose to start James Milner on the left instead of the more exciting Joe Cole. Nevertheless, with a win needed, Joe Cole's creativity will be key to England's chances for three points against Algeria.

The other England big name, Frank Lampard was hardly noticeable. The return of Gareth Barry also against Algeria will surely allow Lampard to improve England's attacking sharpness.

Overall, England played like England would play, lots of intent and pace. England registered eight shots on goal and 18 shots overall, hence they are creating chances and finding space in the penalty box. If Heskey, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Lampard had connected with their attempts, England's attacking verve would have been celebrated.

All is not lost, let's look forward to six points against Algeria and Slovenia.