1990 v 2018

[Harry Wilson's tackle]

This quote is hidden because you are ignoring this member. Show Quote

To start of with, two statements.

Have enjoyed the world cup and ride with the England team.

We got what we deserved and the better team won.

Now I've followed England for decades. I don't know how others feel but this defeat pales in comparison to how I felt when we lost in 1990. Possible because we lost to the arch rivals then but probably more because we had a team that we thought could genuinely win it. Think most pundits were of the opinion that the winners of our semi would beat either of the other two semi-finalist. Today, we were in the semi final having beaten no one of significance but, to be fair, that is the luck of the draw. I hoped, but had no high expectation, of success and because of that I don't feel as disheartened as I did 28 years ago.

My thoughts on individuals :-

Sterling - Despite what so called amateur experts say, he contributes very little yet again. Would prefer to see him as an impact sub and give Rashford a starting chance.
Southgate - Got the job by default and not because of some grand plan by the FA. That said, there is promise so let's see how he gets on in the Euro's qualifiers and hopefully the final tournament.
Pickford - Deservedly now considered England's No. 1.
Trippier - One of the star performers, the only black mark being he's from Burnley (well Bury is close enough!)
Midfield - We lack a star player, quality to go round players or someone to find a killer pass. Lingard and Ali still young enough to improve.

So, to sum up, looking forward to the final of Wimbledon!!!

Total bollocks. Sterling is class. Southgate... Trippier....FFS

Bollocks to wimbledon. We aren't even in it.

Try knitting - you'll win that.

[Harry Wilson's tackle]

This quote is hidden because you are ignoring this member. Show Quote

Rashford was utter gash tonight.

Choked. You would have though a 20 year old would have man upped a bit.

[dig54]

The World Cup will be 48 teams soon... does that make it harder or easier?

It was 16 in 1966, 24 in 1990, 32 in 2018...

[Berty23]

Someone slating sterling again? How much threat did we pose when he went off? I am a huge rashford fan but he was awful tonight.

[Bry Nylon]

Italia 90 was just a wonderful, carefree time for me. Just graduated from university, living in London with a bunch of mates, a perfect, endless summer with no responsibilities but just endless possibilities stretching before me. It was like living in a Nick Hornby novel. Deep down I knew that would be my last summer like that.

Now? Well, now I have a family to take care of and my universe no longer revolves around me. So whilst I'm gutted we lost tonight, normal life resumes with a bang at 6.45am tomorrow morning. For me, this defeat is easier to take as there are more important things in my life now.

[Invicta]

Our games this year felt a round ahead of where they would normally be. Columbia more like a group game, Sweden a last 16 and Croatia a Quarter Final. Went a long way without being tested as in 1990 and 1998. That said was a golden chance to make the final.

[Sea Eagle]

Easier to take than 1990 as we have a team and manager that has built firm foundations for future success.

[Brighton Lines]

The difference between 1990 and 2018 is that Croatia didn't exist to play in the first one.

[Harry Wilson's tackle]

This quote is hidden because you are ignoring this member. Show Quote

Easier to take than 1990 as we have a team and manager that has built firm foundations for future success.

Exactly. If Brighton lose in the FAC final next year it won't be anywhere near as bad as 84....because back then we were in a death dive. But, now, tomorrow belongs to me.

[drew]

This quote is hidden because you are ignoring this member. Show Quote

Total bollocks. Sterling is class. Southgate... Trippier....FFS

Bollocks to wimbledon. We aren't even in it.

Try knitting - you'll win that.

You're right, Sterling is class, just like the Emperor's new clothes.