Harry Kane penalty sees England end campaign with win in Lithuania

There was a moment early in the second half here when the referee, Orel Grinfeld, had to stop play after the children enjoying a kick-about on a five-a-side pitch at the open end of this tiny arena hoofed a yellow football over the netting and on to the turf. Those standing behind the goal at that end of the ground must have been tempted thereafter to turn around and watch the kids’ energetic and whooped attempts to keep warm instead of the main attraction. So much of this was desperately humdrum.

Perhaps this was a fitting way for England’s qualifying campaign to conclude. That they will grace the World Cup next summer should be applauded – the likes of the Netherlands and even Argentina must crave being in the position to spy negatives in progress to Russia – and their defensive record excellent with only three goals shipped en route, but so much of their journey to the finals has been forgettable. Not always a stroll, but lacking any drama with the exception of those frantic final moments at Hampden Park.

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from The Guardian http://ift.tt/2wFukFa