England

1-2

Belarus

Jenas 34

 

Kutozov 50, Kornilenko 81


'B' International Friendly 
Madejski Stadium, Reading FC
8.05pm 25 May 2006

Michael Owen was pleased with the outcome of his 60 minutes at the Madejski Stadium, feeling that his time on the pitch will stand him in very good stead ahead of the World Cup.

After the match he said: "I feel fine. We were quite sharp in the first half and our wide men played well. There were one or two loose passes but we looked dangerous going forward.

"We had one goal disallowed, but we were quite sloppy in the second half letting them get back into it. Their goal gave them a bit of impetus and it's disappointing to lose.

"I was never worried about my fitness because I've been training well over the last few weeks and feeling really sharp. As a striker you get what you're given, so if the team are flying and passing it well you can look even sharper.

"If we give the ball away, you don't get as many touches and you might look a bit subdued, but we looked alright in the first half. I can't feel my injury any more and I'm pleased with my 60 minutes.

"I've tried to get to know Theo in training and find out what his strengths and weaknesses are so we can help each other out if we're called upon.

"It's his first introduction into the squad and even though it's only a B game, it'll feel like an international to him and he would've had the nerves beforehand. It's nice that he's got through and hopefully we can see more of him."