In front of the largest crowd of the week, Peter Sturgess’s side carried on in similar fashion to how they started the previous two encounters, showing the growing confidence and belief in the squad.
England 1-1 USA
Four Nations Tournament
Sunday 8 June 2014
Sport Central, Northumbria University
By Stephen Brown in Newcastle
And the crowd were not to be disappointed when it was the hosts who forced the initiative, with the USA ‘keeper being called into action in the early stages.
As expected, the USA were not going to roll over easily and began to settle into the game following a period of sustained English pressure, with James Dalton being tested with two long range efforts.
But it was England who would strike the first blow after four minutes, with Luke Ballinger and Stuart Cook combining for the latter to slot home with ease.
England continued to be the dominant force, firstly through the impressive Ballinger and then some great play from Sam Murphy saw the ball just elude the on-rushing Will Rooke at the far post.
The second half was still in its early stages when the USA ‘keeper was again sprawling across his box, this time to stop Guillermo Wallace from doubling the England’s advantage.
Luke Ballinger (r) and David Jennings (l) of England look to close down George Nash of the USA
It was England who continued to carve out the more threatening chances, with both Cook and Ballinger going close again after neat play with Jennings and Wallace.
But with the clock ticking down and the home supporters becoming more anxious as the visitors began to enjoy some sustained pressure, the USA pounced with a well-taken goal to steal victory away from England with only two minutes remaining.
It was to be England’s day though, with the game finishing 1-1 and the hosts taking the title of Four Nations’ champions from their opponents after remaining undefeated throughout the three games.
The squad’s attention now turns to qualification in 2015 but with the growing confidence and belief in the squad they will go into those games having performed well in the North East.
Goals: Stuart Cook
Attendance: 538
Video highlights from the Four Nations Tournament
