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England player ratings vs Tunisia: reaction to winning start

By Thomas Bradley Alderman

VOLGOGRAD, RUSSIA - JUNE 18: Harry Kane of England celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between Tunisia and England at Volgograd Arena on June 18, 2018 in Volgograd, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)
VOLGOGRAD, RUSSIA - JUNE 18: Harry Kane of England celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between Tunisia and England at Volgograd Arena on June 18, 2018 in Volgograd, Russia. (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images) /
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VOLGOGRAD, RUSSIA – JUNE 18: A fan of Tunisia shows his dejection following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between Tunisia and England at Volgograd Arena on June 18, 2018 in Volgograd, Russia. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
VOLGOGRAD, RUSSIA – JUNE 18: A fan of Tunisia shows his dejection following the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between Tunisia and England at Volgograd Arena on June 18, 2018 in Volgograd, Russia. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images) /

Strikers

Raheem Sterling: 7

Unfortunately Sterling missed an absolute sitter at the beginning of the match. We need him to showcase his Manchester City form. His touch seems to evade him in testing scenarios.

However, once settled, he made a one-two pass with Kane leading to the opener. If often surrounded by multiple opponents it is best to release the ball early. Sterling struggled physically, yet made constant effort.

Again in the second-half he could have shot or passed when inundated with opposition. Later his passes found the intended target. He gave everything for the cause, although fine tuning is necessary for this hopeful World Cup star.

Withdrawn on 67 minutes with Southgate’s team desperate for a goal. It was just not his night, it was Kane’s.

Harry Kane: 8

Kane held the ball up with quality under duress first-half. Spurs’ main-man was rewarded for his effort on 10 minutes, as he converted a rebound.

Has been sharper; although as captain his performance is imperative. There are multiple times Kane, along with others, are wrestled to the ground during set pieces.

Achieving a higher rating comes with positive involvement. However, that is not always the player’s fault. While attempting to get in to the action he won free-kicks and linked with teammates satisfactorily.

Another goal came his way with 90 minutes gone, taking the three points. His second goal an innovative header and poacher’s finish. Given the man-of-the-match award. While Kane roared – the expectancy will grow.

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