After getting through the group Stages, England faced an Italian side that to be honest, was most certainly a shadow of its former self. England set up to face the Azzuri and an early positive start looked like England could get something. They did however let the Italian's in although it seemed that Man City's Balotelli was doing most of the offensive work. As the game went on the Italians looked like they would edge it and then half time came. It couldnt have come at a better time for England. An opportunity to regroup and go out and start again.England started the second half well and almost went ahead, again though Italy were allowed to get back in the game. John Terry had a good game and found himself unlucky not to win England a penalty after finding himself flung to the ground after having his shirt pulled.
Rooney who had disappointed against the Ukraine, was still a distant self from his Premier League performances. Steven Gerrard who had been at his best in an England shirt in this tournament, had also not been at his best. Glen Johnson who had been often criticised more than praised had a good game and was unlucky not to score as in previous matches. James Milner though continued to disappoint and how long he can continue wearing an England shirt is beyond me and many others.
It came to penalties Italy went first with Ballotelli and he scored in the corner with Hart given no chance. England's captain Gerrard stepped up lead by example and slotted it into the corner. All seemed fine at 1-1. Montolivo stepped up and sent it wide. Hope was starting to build in the England fans. Rooney who had not had his best stepped up next. A bit of penalty spot patting and thoughts immediately turned to Beckham's Portugal penalty miss. All would be good though as the Man Utd front man sent Buffon the wrong way. Pirlo, who had been in control in midfield was next and he cheekily chipped the ball in. Ashley Young who had been disappointing again, completed his misery by slamming his penalty against the crossbar. It was now 3 taken each and 2 scored. Italy up next and an opportunity to make it advantage Azzuri. Nocerino calmly stepped up and made it 3-2. Up next was Ashley Cole. The man who never seemed to shirk responsibility prepared himself. Cole saw his penalty saved in what was a poor penalty. It remained 3-2 and Diamante just had to place his penalty past Joe Hart. Not only did he score but he sent Hart the wrong way and Italy into a semi final against Germany.
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