Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney grabbed England’s winner, but it was a real team performance with Steven Gerrard and John Terry standing out.
Here are our player ratings from England’s dramatic win…
Joe Hart – 7
Hart dealt with everything thrown at him, and his crucial touch from Marko Devic’s strike gave Terry a chance to get back and keep the ball out, according to the officials anyway.
Glen Johnson – 7
Another good defensive performance from Johnson, who didn’t take too many risks going forward, keeping a much-valued clean sheet.
John Terry – 8
Terry’s ‘goal line clearance’ will go down as the match highlight, but he helped mop up in defence all night, making crucial interceptions at the right times. Came close to scoring too.
Joleon Lescott – 7
This was another assured performance from Lescott, who made a superb interception in the closing moments. He has made the centre-back spot his own and faces an interesting duel with club mate Balotelli in the next round.
Ashley Cole – 7
Cole came close to finally scoring for England in the second half, and went forward at every opportunity. His booking for time wasting was needless.
Steven Gerrard – 8
Gerrard was simply excellent, once again. It was his delivery which set up Rooney’s goal and his set pieces were a danger all night. He also put Rooney through on goal late in the second half even though the striker was unable to take advantage.
Scott Parker – 7
Parker complimented Gerrard superbly once again, and his performance was summed up by his surging run after Ukraine’s ‘goal’ was denied. Where he gets his energy from is a mystery.
James Milner – 5
This was another poor showing from Milner whose confidence is low at present. To be fair he kept trying, but it just hasn’t been working.
Ashley Young – 6
This was another mixed display from Young, but had Rooney converted his first half chance we’d be talking about the winger’s superb cross. Can still step up a couple of gears.
Wayne Rooney – 7
Rooney’s shortage of match sharpness showed at times, but he was the driving force behind England’s attacks. His passing kept the fluidity of the attack going, an area in which Carroll should have done better last game.
Danny Welbeck – 6
Welbeck was kept quiet most of the game, to Ukraine’s credit. England fans will forgive it after his excellent winner against Sweden.
Subs
Theo Walcott – 5
Not the same impact as against Sweden, the space didn’t open up for him to take advantage of.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – N/A + Andy Carroll N/A Not enough time to make an impact.
image: © pahudson
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