Slovakia v England: A statistics analysis

05 September 2016 11:23

England started the Sam Allardyce era with an injury-time victory over Slovakia, taking three points home from Trnava.

Using statistics compiled by whoscored.com, Press Association Sport looks at the numbers behind the 1-0 win.

ENGLAND DOMINANT

Victory might have come by the most slender of margins but Allardyce was right to assert England's dominance over 90 minutes.

Aided by Martin Skrtel's sending-off England racked up 20 attempts on goal to the hosts' one. In terms of possession England took 64.3 per cent having been invited on to the front foot by Slovakia coach Jan Kozak.

STONES STANDS TALL

John Stones was not given a minute at Euro 2016 but turned in an accomplished display after being restored to the heart of defence.

He showed his comfort on the ball, making 76 passes, the most of any defender, with an impressive completion rate of 93.4 per cent and two 'key passes'.

But he also did his primary job well, with five clearances, three interceptions and two headers won keeping the back door shut.

ROONEY'S RADAR

The deployment of Wayne Rooney in midfield caused much debate but Allardyce's verdict was clear: Rooney controlled the centre of the park and was a top performer.

The numbers do not tell such a clear story. He made 72 touches but found his target less often than Eric Dier or Jordan Henderson, with a completion rate of 88.9 per cent.

That was partially down to his attempts to break Slovakia open with ambitious crossfield balls. He attempted nine long balls but was off target with four of those. He also took all nine of England's corners without creating a clear chance.

On the plus side the 30-year-old topped the 'key passes' chart with three and made two interceptions.

Source: PA