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England Under-21s player ratings vs Slovenia: Conor Gallagher makes his mark; Emile Smith Rowe struggles

 (The FA via Getty Images)
(The FA via Getty Images)

England Under-21s suffered an almighty collapse as they threw away a two-goal lead to draw in Slovenia.

The Young Lions were quickly in control of Thursday night’s tie, scoring with their first two chances.

England looked to have won a penalty when a brilliant Oliver Skipp pass sent Rhian Brewster through and he was tripped, but Conor Gallagher pounced on the loose ball and removed the need for a spot-kick by finishing for his first goal at this level for almost two years.

Cole Palmer had scored on his debut against Kosovo last month and ensured he didn’t have the same sort of wait for a second as Gallagher, tucking away a composed finish after collecting Luke Thomas’ cross.

After barely getting a touch in the first half thanks to a dominant England display, Slovenia came out swinging after the break and after a succession of corners struck back through Mark Spanring.

England looked a little stunned by Slovenia stepping up and the hosts were soon level as Dusan Stojinovic headed home from a corner.

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Here is how Jack Rosser rated the Young Lions...

Joe Bursik 6

He was not really at fault for either goal, did well otherwise.

Max Aarons 6

A solid but unspectacular hour from the Norwich full-back. Needs to offer more to keep his place over Tino Livramento.

Marc Guehi 5

Composed on the ball but should have done much better at the back for both goals.

Taylor Harwood-Bellis 6

Escaped a penalty for an early challenge but a decent showing.

Luke Thomas 7

Dominated down the left in the first half and swung in some fantastic crosses, including the assist for Palmer’s goal.

Oliver Skipp 6

Imposed himself on midfield in the first half and opened up Slovenia in the build-up to Gallagher’s goal. Failed to respond to the challenge after the break.

Conor Gallagher 7

Showed great energy to get onto the loose ball and score the opening goal. Faded in the second half.

Jacob Ramsey 6

Tidy but unremarkable performance from the Aston Villa youngster.

Emile Smith Rowe 5

Got into decent positions in the first half but failed to have the expected impact on the game. Drew a late save from the Slovenia goalkeeper.

Rhian Brewster 5

The Sheffield United forward looks utterly devoid of confidence. Dithered over the ball and never really looked a threat.

Cole Palmer 7

Made a flying start and doubled England’s lead with a well-taken goal but faded quickly in the second half.

Subs

Tino Livramento 6

Added some energy down the right in place of Aarons and provided a threat with his crosses.

Folarin Balogun n/a

Tyreece John-Jules n/a

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