ENGLAND Beat Argies

 ENGLAND Beat Argies

David Beckham scored the vital goal that finally sunk Argentina - and dramatically wiped away the memory of his sending off against the South Americans four years ago.

The England captain belted home a right foot penalty minutes before half-time to give Sven Goran Eriksson's side a famous World Cup victory over their bitter rivals.

In 1998 against Argentina Beckham was the villan, being shown the red card after kicking out at Diego Simeone.  This time he was a hero to the whole nation, cooly converting from the spot after Michael Owen had been bought down in th box.

Eriksson's men are now being hailed as hero's, with Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes appearing as immense central figures and Trevor Sinclair sparkling in a suprise early substitution role, while the defence were commanding the majority of the game.

England had a foot hold in the game after the first 10 minutes and created many chances to improve their lead.  Owen hit the woodwork before the goal which he was immensly unlucky with.  Teddy Sheringham and Paul Scholes both had terrific volley's saved after excellent build up play.

There were some heart stopping moments during the last 15 minutes which seemed to last an eternity.  England now only need a draw against Nigeria in their final Group F game next Wednesday to get through to the knock-out stage of the competition.

Many challenges still lie ahead at this World Cup but, in Sapporo, this young team may just, memorably, have come of age.

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