Peter Drury dropped a spine-tingling piece of commentary during Marcus Rashford’s sublime second-half free-kick for England in their World Cup clash against Wales on Tuesday.
Gareth Southgate’s men ensured they finished top of Group B and will reach the knockout stages after the Three Lions broke down a resilient Wales.
Following a 0-0 scoreline at half-time, Manchester City star Phil Foden was brought down by Wales defender Joe Rodon early in the second half after a dazzling run.
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Rashford, who made his first England start at the World Cup in Qatar, fired a powerful, dipping shot past Wales ‘keeper Danny Ward from 20 yards out.
The England fans inside the Ahmed bin Ali Stadium erupted after Rashford’s sensational strike, with the silver-tongued Drury doing what he does best on commentary.
“Marcus Rashford. Oh, yes! Magnificent!” Drury passionately said.
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“A wonderful young talent who has back his joy for the game, and England draw their joy from him. Marcus Rashford, loving life again!”
England wasted no time in extending their lead after Harry Kane whipped in an excellent low cross into the box for Foden to tap into the back of the net.
Rashford completed his brace in the 68th minute thanks in part to Wales ‘keeper Ward, who came in for the suspended Wayne Hennessey, after the England star’s shot slipped through his legs.
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England manager Southgate hailed the 25-year-old Manchester United forward for his sensational return to form and impact for the Three Lions at the World Cup.
“It’s been a challenge for him [Rashford],” he said.
“I went and saw him in the summer and had a long chat with him. He had some clear ideas on things he felt he needed to think about and to do.
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“You can see at his club there’s been happiness in his performances this year. That’s shown itself on the training ground all the time with us.
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“We’ve got a different version completely to the player we had in the Euros last summer.
“He’s managed to produce those moments tonight. He could have had a hat-trick with the chance in the first half and the one at the near post towards the end.
“But it’s great for him and it’s great for us.”
England will now face Senegal, who finished second in Group A, in the round of 16 on 4th December at the Al Bayt Stadium.
Topics: Marcus Rashford, England, Wales, Football World Cup, Football
Adnan Riaz