England Defy the Odds As They Thrash Croatia in Zagreb

Arsenal star Theo Walcott proved his worth tonight, during England’s 4-1 win over Croatia in Zagreb. The Gunners winger scored a superb hat trick as ended the Croats undefeated home streak of 35 games.

Walcott, who started in Andorra, was once again preferred to MLS hero David Beckham as manager Fabio Capello opted for an attacking line-up, with Emile Heskey partnering Wayne Rooney up front in a 4-4-2 formation.

The tactics worked perfectly as England easily picked off Croatia in the midfield after a somewhat subdued beginning to the first half.

Walcott’s first came in the 25th minute, as he capitalized on a clearance by Daniel Pranjic which came off a fellow team-mate straight into his path. He drilled the ball hard and low into the bottom corner, but the Croatian goalkeeper should have done better after getting his fingers to the ball.

In the second half it was more of the same for England, as Croatia made little impression asserting themselves, and their cause was further hindered in the 53rd minute as defender Robert Kovac was sent off for nasty challenge—leading with his elbow on Joe Cole who was left with blood streaming from a cut.

After collapsing to the ground Cole received treatment, and was substituted for Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Jermaine Jenas. It is thought that Cole had a concussion and no risks were to be taken. He soon returned to the England bench looking well, and sporting several stitches to the upper right of his forehead.

Shortly after, the excellent Wayne Rooney surged towards the penalty area before exchanging passes with Heskey and then slipping the ball to Walcott, who fired precisely with a strike similar to his first.

England were quickly 3-0 up in the 64th minute, as full-back Ashley Cole won the ball and sent substitute Jermaine Jenas down the left flank, getting to the byline and passing to a wide open Rooney. The Manchester United striker could hardly miss from the 5 yard's out.

Croatia hit back late in the game after some sloppy defending by England, but replays suggested that there was a high-foot challenge committed on John Terry—who left the field shortly after making his thoughts heard to the referee.

And to cap off a great night in Zagreb for England, a well deserved fourth, and a third for the 19-year-old Walcott completing his hat-trick, after being played in by a superb ball from Wayne Rooney.

It was a truly great performance from England against extremely tough opposition, in an intimidating atmosphere.

Fabio Capello has reason to be proud of his men, as they showed what England football can really be after weak showings against the Czech Republic and Andorra.