African adventure

At least the nerve-racking 1-0 win against Slovenia, inspired by a man-of-the-match performance by the industrious Leeds-born James Milner, means England will not suffer the ignominy of arriving home before the postcards.

Yet it was hardly a victory to inspire confidence. If only every player had applied themselves like those fans who went to extraordinary lengths, whether in South Africa or across Yorkshire, to support England in the side's hour of need. It is why a word of caution is required, before the hyperbole becomes intoxicating, as Fabio Capello's men prepare for their last 16 encounter. Judging by the lame performance of some star players, and their irritating inability to keep possession, they still resemble a team of overpaid under-performers.

It is a criticism frequently levelled against this country's public servants. Is this a curiously English characteristic – or is Jermain Defoe's goal, scored off his shin, the beginning of an unforgettable African adventure? Time will tell.