Euro 2012: 4 Things Learned from England's Loss to Italy

So, England's Euro 2012 adventure has ended around the point most of us expected. There is plenty to review from the defeat to Italy on penalties. Now there will some time for England to reflect on the things they did well and the things they didn't.

It's disappointing to consider that Roy Hodgson's spell as England manager may not be any more successful as those that have gone before him. But we will know more when England plays their next game.

Here are four things we learned from England's loss to Italy.

A Good First Half

The signs from the first half of the game were fairly positive. Both sides had their moments, but it was pleasing to see England building their own attacks.

On this evidence we were going to have a good entertaining and competitive game of football. 

What Happened at Halftime?

Surely Roy Hodgson should have been telling his players at halftime to keep doing what they are doing and create chances. Clearly, Hodgson was concerned about his side being too open and felt they needed to play a defensive game.

England hardly attacked in the second half or extra time. The introductions of Andy Carroll and Theo Walcott didn't do much to alter the game, and Jordan Henderson was on as much to save Scott Parker's legs as much as anything else.

Surely England Are Better Than This!

We have been hearing a lot about how the opposition is so much better throughout Euro 2012 and how England cannot expect to pass and keep the ball.

I don't personally agree and think, as England fans, we deserve and should expect better.

Where Is the Evidence to Suggest Defensive Football Works?

I know Chelsea had great success in the Champions League by playing this way, but that does mean it is always going to work.

Personally, I like to see attacking football with a solid backbone. In general, football favors the brave and the team that shows that desire to win.

I am disappointed that England think that they have to play for a penalty shootout and can't cause their opposition a problem.

Last time I looked, the likes of Rooney, Walcott, Young and Oxlade-Chamberlain caused significant problems for Premier League teams. It would be nice if they were given the same chance for their country.   

Follow James Kent on Twitter and Facebook.