• Spain 1-1 England, European U21 Championship

England U21s snatch late equaliser against Spain

June 12, 2011
Danny Welbeck slotted England's equaliser © PA Photos
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England's European U21 Championship campaign got off to a shaky yet rewarding start when they escaped from a one-sided encounter with Spain to draw 1-1 in Herning.

Often passed to death by their opponents, England's concession of a 14th minute goal was deserved, though Ander Herrera clearly bundled in a set-piece move with his hand.

Stuart Pearce's initial selection looked in question but the introduction of Henri Lansbury for Danny Rose and Jack Rodwell for captain Michael Mancienne marked an improvement.

The outstanding Chris Smalling began a move that ended up with Kyle Walker supplying Danny Welbeck with an 88th minute equaliser, from a clear offside position but nevertheless drilled past David De Gea, soon to be of Manchester United, in the Spain goal.

In the other Group B game, a double from captain Borek Dockal was enough for the Czech Republic to beat Ukraine 2-1 in Viborg and claim a top spot they retained after England's draw.

The Czechs took the lead when Dockal smashed in a superb left-footed volley in the 49th minute. Six minutes later, he was on the end of a fine passing move to score again with his left.

Ukraine made a late flurry and grabbed a consolation when sub Maksim Beliy scored on 87 minutes but the Czechs held on for what was a largely impressive and deserved victory.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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