Gerrard Scored at Birthday

30 May 2006 England 3-1 Hungary - International Friendly

BBC - Steven Gerrard and John Terry both headed home free-kicks from David Beckham in the space of four minutes early in the second half. Pal Dardai pulled a goal back with a brilliant long-range shot before Peter Crouch's excellent low strike late on. Theo Walcott came on to become England's youngest ever international, while in the first half Gabor Kiraly saved a penalty from Frank Lampard.
Sven-Goran Eriksson had promised that the line-up for this match would start against Paraguay in England's opening World Cup match. Gerrard played as the advanced midfielder, supporting Michael Owen, while Jamie Carragher played as a holding midfield role with Beckham, Lampard and Joe Cole across the middle of the park.
Interesting formation, Sven! Carra, the holding role? That one was brilliant, but I'm afraid he will do something like clearance in the midfield. You know, defenders' intuition....lol Seriously, Gerrard seemed comfortable playing behind Owen. But I don't think the Gerrard-Lampard problem was solved. They sometimes appeared at the same place, and did someone see that? Before Gerrard created the penalty, Lampard was actually going to shoot but missed or hit Gerrard's foot? How did that happen?? On the other hand, Beckham and Joe Cole had a great game. Owen still needs fitness, as well as Ashely Cole.
England definitely can win without Rooney. They got really strong midfield and backline, captain of Liverpool, Man U and Chelsea. Well, the thing is....Owen is a good scorer but not the type of lone striker. I think Gerrard could give him more support.

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