England vs San Marino: Joe Hart hilariously voted man of the match despite making just ONE save
Hart spent most of the match as an observer as San Marino failed to test him until the closing stages of the match
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Joe Hart may have experienced his most dull game to date in the 5-0 victory over San Marino, but that did not stop England fans enjoying themselves as they voted the goalkeeper man of the match.
Despite ITV analyst Andy Townsend selecting Jack Wilshere as the official man of the match, England fans saw the match differently – or were so bored that they needed something to liven up the Thursday night’s action - as Hart received the accolade despite making just one safe and touching the ball 19 times.
With Hart securing 63 per cent of the vote, official man of the match Jack Wilshere received just 11 per cent of the fans’ backing – although he also claimed the magnum of champagne at the end of the match.
Three Lions captain Wayne Rooney finished third with Danny Welbeck fourth as the two forwards got on the score-sheet, but there was no stopping Hart as he ran away with the majority of the vote.
Even the Wembley announcer was miffed with the decision as he stopped midway through announcing Hart as the winner, before naming Wilshere as man of the match after the final whistle.
The newly expanded European Championships have meant while the number of nations in qualification remains the same, lower ranked teams in each group stand a better chance of getting through.
However, on last night’s showing, San Marino – ranked joint-208th and last in the world – will not be making plans for France 2016.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments