Winning start for England
Football: Belgium U-21 0 England U-21 1
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.Tottenham's Steve Slade celebrated his debut at this level by giving England victory in their opening Group B game in the Toulon tournament last night.
Glenn Hoddle, who replaces Terry Venables as England coach after the Euro 96, was in France to see the match and he witnessed a goal that he would have been proud to have scored.
Slade, called up as late replacement for Kevin Gallen, picked up the ball in the 36th minute and ran 40 yards before releasing it to Manchester United's Terry Cooke. When Cooke's cross came in Slade found himself with his back towards goal under pressure from two Belgium defenders.
But he flicked the ball over the first advancing defender, slipped the ball past the second and cooly beat the goalkeeper.
If Slade took the glory it was Manchester United's David Beckham who was the inspiration. His passing was a constant threat and he also popped up in his own penalty box to halt one of Belgium's few threats.
Dave Sexton, the England Under-21 coach said: "I thought Slade scored a terrific goal but our midfield ran and controlled the game. I was especially pleased for David Beckham. He has played for Manchester United all season and has won the League and Cup with them.
"He could have quite easily not made the trip but he was out there grafting with the rest of us and he was a fine example."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments