Lita miss spares Czechs
Lita's miss may prove costly as England fight to qualify for the next stage
Also In The News
|
Blue Note Records, out now. |  |
Monday, 11, Jun 2007 10:46
England under-21s opened their European Championship campaign with a 0-0 draw against the Czech Republic after Reading striker Leroy Lita spurned a late penalty chance.
Stuart Pearce's side, devoid of the attacking menace of David Bentley, struggled to break down a stubborn Czech side and chances were sparse in a dull first half.
David Nugent's long-range effort warmed keeper Zdenek Zlamal's gloves, but it was the sole attempt on target from the young Lions.
At the other end the unfamiliar centre-back pairing of Gary Cahill and Nedum Onuoha looked uneasy and it took a brave rush from goal from Scott Carson to halt the advance of Jan Kysela.
Immediately after the interval Kieran Richardson wasted a glorious opportunity at the far post after Nugent's flick-on had wrong-footed the Czech defenders.
Liverpool stopper Carson was again alert to tip a rasping free-kick from Daniel Pudil on to the post as the evening grew increasingly uncomfortable for England.
But three minutes from time it appeared that the lively Nugent had earned his side a vital three points after a typical bustling run into the box was unceremoniously halted by a handball from Roman Hubnik.
Zlamal dived the wrong way but Lita's attempt was drilled wide of the open half of the goal and glanced off the post for a goalkick.