England travelled to Russia fearing the effect of the artificial pitch in Moscow, yet insisting it would not be the cause of their downfall should their be one on the day. It would appear that the players and staff were right, the pitch was not a problem. In a game that England dominated their downfall was masterminded by a Gus Hiddink substitution and some poor refereeing rather than caused by a plastic pitch.

Rooney Volley Puts England In Control

On the half hour England went ahead, when Michael Owen knocked down a long clearance from the England defence in to the path of Wayne Rooney who coolly volleyed the ball past the Russian keeper, who had no chance to make a save. England had a chance to increase their lead, which would have put the game beyond their hosts as Gerrard uncharacteristically scuffed a volley for it to go wide of the near post.

Super Sub Pavluchenko Scores Two To Put The Pressure On England

It took just four minutes to turn the game, English fans who were celebrating certain qualification as their team bossed the game on the suspect pitch, were soon facing despair as they trailed the Russians. Both goals came courtesy of Pavluchenko who was introduced in to the fray on the hour. Rooney turned from hero to villain when he brought down Zurianov outside the box but the linesman did not help the referee with his decision as he pointed to the spot. Paul Robinson dived the right way but was unable to stop Pavluchenko’s penalty kick.

Russia scored their second just four minutes later, when Pavluchenko put the ball in from close range when Robinson could only parry Beretzutsky’s shot into his path.

England Rely On Others To Help Them Qualify

Steve McClaren and his England team now have to rely on other results if they are to qualify for the final tournament next summer. They need Israel to take points off Russia in their game in hand, as there is little chance of Andorra taking points off them. England will also have to overcome Group E leaders Croatia at Wembley next month.