Hoyte leaves Lee a winner

Winner: Justin Hoyte
14 April 2012

Sammy Lee's one-match reign as England Under-21 coach brought victory as Justin Hoyte grabbed the only goal in Alkmaar.

The Arsenal full back charged down a clearance from goalkeeper Boy Waterman and had enough space to lift the ball over him from close range after only 12 minutes.

Lee, in temporary charge while Peter Taylor concentrates on club matters at Championship strugglers Crystal Palace, saw his side hold on comfortably for victory.

The Dutch were unable to take advantage of some impressive work by former Arsenal man Quincy Owusu-Abeyie, who also forced a fine save from Scott Carson just before the break.

The friendly was a warm-up for next year's European Championship finals, which are also in Holland, and England are building a reputation as one of the favourites after beating Germany in their play-off qualifier and now defeating the current holders despite eight withdrawals from the original squad.

England could even have extended their lead but David Nugent failed to finish in the 73rd minute when he was through on goal, and Cameron Jerome was foiled by Waterman after he sprinted clear of the defence late on.

'The application and focus was good from everyone,' said Lee. 'Peter Taylor has engendered a great team spirit in the squad and that showed tonight.'

Arsenal youngster Theo Walcott was taken off eight minutes from the end after a heavy challenge from Ryan Donk on the edge of the area. Lee added: 'We don't really know how serious it is yet. To see him go off like that is the one downer for us.'.

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