Bernie’s Sports Focus - 12th September 2012

Malta lost their second successive World Cup qualifier with a 2-0 defeat against Italy but to Malta’s credit they managed to stem a gold rush.

 

The Italians had promised much before the match but were frustrated by a gritty Maltese defense. There was a suspicion of offside in the opening Destro goal after just five minutes and more than a stroke of good fortune in Peluso’s goal in extra time which came of Hogg and Cohen. The points went to Italy but praise from the Italian supporters for the efforts of Malta and their South End Core supporters.

 

A late Frank Lampard penalty spared England’s blushes as they scraped a 1-1 draw against Ukraine at Wembley.

Konoplianka gave the visitors an early lead to leave England sweating until the dying minutes before grabbing a late equalisier. Captain Steven Gerrard was sent off after picking up a second yellow card. He will miss the qualifier against San Marino next month.

 

Northern Ireland were left frustrated by a 1-1 draw against Luxembourg in Belfast while Scotland had to settle for a point and a 1-1 draw with Macedonia.

 

It was a disastrous night for Wales who were hammered 6-1 by Serbia, their worst defeat in 16 years.

 

Defending world champions Spain had Roberto Soldado’s late strike to thank for their 1-0 win over Georgia.