HEROICS BY CLEM .. IN VAIN
RAY CLEMENCE laid the platform for Tony Woodcock to secure victory – but ultimately this was yet another tale of woe at the European Championship for the Three Lions.
The Liverpool keeper was one of boss Ron Greenwood’s heroes as the country at least came home with a win under its belt following another disappointing campaign.
Clemence saved a twice-taken penalty to keep England on level terms – allowing Cologne striker Woodcock (below) to grab the glory when he pounced on a rebound.
Unfortunately for Greenwood, it would have taken triumph by two clear goals to see his side through to a play-off for third place – and they could not do it.
England were in a group against hosts Italy and defeat in the San Siro to Marco Tardelli’s solitary goal, three days before the Spain fixture, meant that the best they could hope for was third place.
It started well enough. A lofted ball into the area from the right was met by Ray Wilkins at the far post. The midfielder nodded down and Trevor Brooking charged in to fire home from inside the six-yard box.
But just after the break Spain hit back. Jesus Zamora was dragged over by Clemence after nutmegging Viv Anderson and bore down on goal. Dani took the spot-kick and levelled.
Just four minutes later, Dave Watson made two clumsy attempts to tackle Enrique Saura and the forward was felled, with ref Erick Linemayr giving a second penalty.
But the drama had not concluded as the Austrian match official ordered a re-take after Dani had scored again, once more choosing to go to Clemence’s left.
However, he changed tactics and the Kop goalie guessed correctly.
The value of that save was seen in the final half-hour when Terry McDermott connected beautifully on the volley direct from a corner only for Luis Arconada to palm out his shot with Woodcock on hand to force home the loose ball.
England pressed for a third, but Spain stuck to their task and it was left to the Italians to play Czechoslovakia for the thirdplace play-off three days later.