But there were also noteworthy contributions from Everton’s stars, while Tottenham Hotspur’s main man got himself a vital goal.
Joe Hart – 7/10
Surprisingly, San Marino actually landed a shot on target against the England goalkeeper but, despite, an earlier loss of footing, there were no Hart-stopping moments.
Luke Shaw – 8/10
This was only San Marino (sorry, chaps) so everything comes with a pinch of salt but the Manchester United full-back really was on his game, getting forward very well and delivering several impressive crosses into the area.
John Stones – 6.5/10
The Everton centre-back surged forward a lot and handled inside the San Marino danger area… which resulted in a penalty for England!?
Phil Jagielka – 6.5/10
Another Everton defender to avoid any mishaps, Jagielka was brought down during Stones’ handball incident. The spot-kick may have been awarded for that, even though the referee wasn’t looking in Jagielka’s direction at the time.
Nathaniel Clyne – 6.5/10
A run-of-the-mill display from the Liverpool full-back.
Jonjo Shelvey – 7/10
Looked calm, composed and kept things going, while understandably taking it a lot easier than he would during a Premier League game.
James Milner – 6/10
Delivered good set-pieces but was actually pretty average in this one.
Ross Barkley – 6.5/10
The Everton man was praised for scoring a second-half header, which required his usual deadly eye in front of goal. Although there were some of his more erratic moments on the ball, too.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – 7.5/10
The Arsenal midfielder made a bright start to the game and registered a great assist for Barkley’s goal. The Ox was marauding down the right-hand side throughout – Arsenal fans will love to see more of that in the coming months.
Jamie Vardy – 6,5/10
Ran in behind a lot and couldn’t have done that much more considering he was up against San Marino. Vardy may well have struggled more against a Spain or a Germany.
Wayne Rooney – 7/10
Scored a record-equaling penalty and will now get the chance to make history at a packed Wembley Stadium versus the country he created a different bit of history against (Switzerland) in 2004.
Substitutes
Fabian Delph – 6.5/10
The Manchester City midfielder showed some very good glimpses despite not being anywhere near fully fit.
Harry Kane – 7/10
The Tottenham striker showed real calm and composure with a chipped finish to net against San Marino. Roy Hodgson may have done Spurs a huge favour here as Kane will hopefully take confidence form his goal. Will he get the service at Tottenham to show it, though?
Theo Walcott – 7/10
Very impressive to score twice after coming on, although the Arsenal winger/forward has always delivered against the smaller teams.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
