World Cup: Ineffective Wales harpooned by English sharpshooters

ENGLAND were never in danger of losing this one and Wales were never in line to win it.

The evidence was clearly on show in a first half where the Three Lions dominated possession and territory and led on all the stats except goals scored, but not for the lack of trying.

Skipper Harry Kane put Rashford through early on but the shot was delayed, giving Ward the chance to come out and close him down.

Phil Foden and Marcus Rashford would come close for England, while Jo Allen put one over the bar for the Dragons.

No score at half time, while the USA were 1-0 ahead of Iran in the other Group B fixture, and headed for advancement.

There was more urgency from the Three Lions at the resumption and Wales’ dim hopes were snuffed out completely, just four minutes into the second segment.

A free kick is awarded outside the box and  Rashford smashes it over the wall and into the far top corner; Danny Ward in the Welsh goals having first gone right and not able to get back (1-0).

Barely two minutes later, Rashford picks Ben Davies’ pocket and gives the ball to Harry Kane, who places an immaculate, perfectly paced square pass into the path of Foden, who takes care of the business end (2-0)

Gareth Southgate rings the changes and substitute Phillips chips a delightful ball over the top for workaholic Rashford, whose shot manages to nutmeg both Rodon and Ward (3-0).

With a brace on the night, Rashford’s shift is over so still no hat trick at Qatar.

The job has been done and England, boasting the highest goal tally so far, advance to the knockout platform.