Saturday March 26 – Millennium Stadium
Wales v England
Time has passed, but the memory of the England National squad in their most recent World Cup disaster remains relatively fresh in the mind. The criticism over Capello’s rigid tactics. Rumours of disunity amongst the players. The collapse of Wayne Rooney. The heartache. The disappointment. The tears. Good times folks. Good times.
Well – the good times are back, with the oncoming Euro 2012 qualification campaign getting into full swing. Going into Saturday’s showdown against Wales the team is already surrounded by controversy. Glen Hoddle has blasted Capello for his insistence on sticking with the 4-4-2 formation, whilst the media has delighted in the intrigue and turmoil over John Terry’s reinstatement to Captain. Has Rio Ferdinand been betrayed? Why won’t Capello mix up his formations? We have the criticism…we have the turmoil…now for the tears.
In that corner we have Wales, who will be looking to break England’s heart with what would be a stirring, historic win. Their team comes into this one with limited pedigree and poor form. Which is exactly the sort of team that has given England trouble in the past. Most of the Welsh hopes will be resting squarely on the shoulders of Gareth Bale, but it was veteran striker Craig Bellamy who showed the right sort of attitude when he stated that England have struggled because the high expectations of the fans have turned the players into complete nervous wrecks. Any time you have the opportunity to stick it to both the English players and their fans, you’ve just got to do it.
Will it be enough come game time? Probably not. England has the talent, they have the ambition, and who knows – 2012 might just be their year. Superboy Jack Wilshere to score.
Away (England), 3-0, Wilshere
The Shirtman
PS – If you do not submit your tips prior to kick off you will be credited with The Shirtman’s score.
