United States' Steve Cherundolo, right, is challenged by England'sJames Milner, left, during the World Cup group C soccer match betweenEngland and the United States at Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg,South Africa. (photo: AP)<br>
England, USA draw 1-1
RUSTENBURG, South Africa – England and the United States drew 1-1 in their opening World Cup Group C match today after a blunder by England keeper Robert Green helped the US equalise Steven Gerrard’s goal.
Gerrard gave England a fourth-minute lead at the Royal Bafokeng stadium but they were sent back to square one five minutes before the break, when Green allowed Clint Dempsey’s tame shot to spin off his gloves and into the net.
Green made amends when he pushed Jozy Altidore’s angled shot onto the post on 64 minutes.
England pressed hard for the winner in the last quarter of an hour, with Wayne Rooney coming closest with a long-range shot which flew narrowly wide, but the Americans defended doggedly to earn a well-deserved point.
