Kane clinches late win as England limp to Russia
ENGLAND
Kane 90
SLOVENIA
1
Harry Kane fired England to next summer’s World Cup but his last-gasp winner cannot paper over the cracks after Gareth Southgate’s men limped to victory against limited Slovenia.
Dull, flat and uneventful all aptly describe a Group F encounter that may secure World Cup qualification but leaves just as many questions as answers.
So underwhelming was this encounter that fans seemed more excited about paper planes landing on the pitch, with England offering preciouslittletoshoutabout until captain Kane directed home to secure a stodgy 1-0 win in stoppage time.
England may be able to book their flights for Russia but this listless display against a nation ranked 55th in the world only underlines the work that needs to be done to stop next summer ending up like the last World Cup or Euro 2016.
After a dreadful opening period, Marcus Rashford, Raheem Sterling and Kane had efforts in quick succession during a brief flash of second-half excitement – but there were also moments when Slovenia threatened to inflict a first qualifying defeat since October 2009. In one anxious moment Joe Hart had to burst off his line to bravely throw himself in front of Tim Matavz.
Such a ponderous performance tested fans’ patience, but those who waited finally had a moment to enjoy in stoppage time.
Slovenia coach Srecko Katanec, however, would not have enjoyed it, as Kyle Walker cut out Jan Oblak’s throw and sent in a perfect cross for Kane, whose shot had too much for the otherwise impressive goalkeeper.
Manager Southgate can now use Sunday’s trip to Lithuania as a chance to experiment – a match for which Dele Alli is available again having served a onematch ban against Slovenia.