WICKHAM SEALS TOP SPOT AND PUTS YEAR OF PAIN BEHIND HIM
CONNOR WICKHAM has endured more angst in the past 12 months than some players do in an entire career but, at long last, he has reason to smile again. Little has gone right for Wickham since he joined Sunderland last summer but, with impeccable timing, he provided a reminder of his talents against Norway last night with the goal that keeps England Under 21s on course to reach Euro 2013. Wickham’s strike — his first at this level — ensured England finished top of Group 8 and means they now have the advantage of being seeded when the play-off draw is made on Friday. Although England rode their luck at times, particularly in the second period, their efforts over the past 12 months meant they are deserved group winners and now head coach Stuart Pearce is demanding they secure a trip to Israel next year. He said: ‘It was a very bitty game, I couldn’t say it was delightful football. Norway came to try to win the game and the group and put us on the back foot. But I have to be pleased with the last eight days. We’ve won two games without conceding and had some really steady performers.’ The tension surrounding this contest slackened a little before kick-off as results from around Europe guaranteed Norway a place in the play-offs. But given Pearce had made it clear he wanted a win to finish off the qualifying campaign, the pressure was on the home side and they enjoyed the best of a cagey opening half. Martyn Waghorn served notice of England’s intentions with a thumping drive that sped past a post, while Blackpool’s Thomas Ince fluffed a fine opening just before the half-hour. Those misses, however, never looked as if they would return to haunt England. Just before the break, Wickham (below) — given the chance to start after a lively cameo in Azerbaijan last Thursday — made the game’s defining contribution with a neat finish. England’s play lacked fluency after the break and Norway almost profited in the 69th minute when Salzburg forward Havard Nielsen smashed a drive against the bar. In the end, Pearce’s side saw the job out.