England U21s continue unbeaten start
Pearce's side have yet to concede a goal in their three qualifying games
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Friday, 12, Oct 2007 10:19
England Under-21s have gone top of their Euro 2009 qualifying group after beating Montenegro Under-21s 1-0 at the Walkers Stadium.
Blackburn striker Matt Derbyshire grabbed the winning goal for Stuart Pearce's side midway through the first half.
Despite enjoying the lion's share of the possession, the home side lacked the killer touch in front of goal.
Newcastle defender Stephen Taylor went agonisingly close early on after smashing his header against the post.
England U21s took the lead on 20 minutes when James Milner threaded the ball through to Derbyshire who slotted home to make it 1-0.
Pearce's side improved after the break and should have been awarded a penalty on 50 minutes when Aleksandar Radovic handled in the area.
Milner's venomous drive from long-range was then tipped over the bar.
Montenegro's best chance fell to Marko Cetkovic who escaped his marker and directed his header narrowly wide of Joe Hart's goal.
Manchester City ace Nedum Onuoha was unlucky not to make it 2-0 when he rose to meet Tom Huddlestone's corner but his bullet header rattled against the crossbar.
The win sees England U21s continue their 100 per start to their campaign in group three and move above Portugal, who earlier suffered a shock defeat to Bulgaria.