Young Lions lose out
Wednesday, 13 February, 2013
England U16s lose by odd goal in seven against Germany in Cologne
England U16s made a thrilling start to 2013, as they took on Germany U16s in their first European trip of the season.
After three victories to lift the Victory Shield earlier in the campaign, Head Coach Kenny Swain and his squad headed to Cologne for a friendly against the Germans.
And it ended in a narrow defeat for the Young Lions, who lost out by the odd goal in seven at the Südstadion Vorgebirgsstraße despite taking the lead on three occasions.
After a bright start, England's first goal came through WBA striker Isaiah Brown who slotted home after 23 minutes, only for Germany's Philipp Ochs to level things up within five minutes.
Manchester United winger Demetri Mitchell then put Swain's team back in front early in the second half, with the Germans again hitting straight back through sub Max Besuschkow in the 48th minute.
England substitute Adam Armstrong, of Newcastle United, then made an instant impact by giving England the lead for the third time just after the hour mark.
But Germany showed their resolve, with Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Benjamin Henrichs making it 3-3 with ten minutes to go.
And Henrichs proved to be the hero for his side four minutes later by notching his second of the game and what proved to be the winning goal for Germany.
To see the line-up for this game, click on the Team Sheet option above.