International Friendly: England 2-1 Italy

On Wednesday night, England came out 2-1 victors in an international friendly against Italy, a result that will buoy manager Roy Hodgson.England actually went behind when Roma midfielder Daniele De Rossi stroked home, but England replied with a goal from Everton centre back Phil Jagielka. This was topped by a superb winner scored by Spurs striker Jermain Defoe.The atmosphere was lukewarm, with the stadium far from full and both teams seemed to fear sustaining injuries with the league season just beginning. In an unusual development, the game also saw England hand debuts to 2 goalkeepers, Jack Butland and John Ruddy.Cesare Prandelli also named a relatively inexperienced squad, and few names survived from Italy's triumph in the 2012 European Championship Quarter Final.Both new goalkeepers made good stops, with signs that Joe Hart will face stiff competition in the future, which can only bode well for England.There were even positives to take from England's midfield with a good understanding between Michael Carrick and the youngster Tom Cleverly. Hodgson was effusive in praise for Defoe's winner, stating that "The goal was spectacular, [and] a great way to win the game." He suggested that the goal could be the sign of things to come from Defoe, who is known for spectacular strikes.Buy Premier League tickets today. You can buy Liverpool, Arsenal and Man Utd tickets online securely today.