World Cup nerves in Rochdale

Photo: Paul Finnerty

Barry Lancaster is 50/50 about the game

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As England take on Slovenia in South Africa this afternoon at 3.00pm knowing only a victory will realistically see them through, Rochdale Online’s Paul Finnerty went on to the streets to find out what the Rochdale public expect from the game.

George Parkinson plans to watch the game at home and remains unsure: "The way they are playing I don’t know. They’ll probably win by the odd goal, maybe 2-1. I’d drop Heskey.

“I can’t see them getting very far and the way they’re playing they won’t get through the first stage.”

Butcher John Lamb is going to watch the game in the Litten Tree and is also doubtful:

“I’m staying positive but I don’t think we’ll do it. We’ve got no flair. He (Fabio Capello) has to go for it and play three forwards. I hope it is 2-1 England but it’ll be close. I think Jermaine Defoe will score.”

Barry Lancaster will watch the game in the Blue Pits Inn, Castleton, and is less critical of captain Steven Gerrard and co:

“Hopefully we’ll win, it’s 50/50. We’re lacking luck and we need to get used to the ball. We should have used some beforehand. I wouldn’t put money on an England victory. So they have a chance they should make it rain. I think it’ll be 3-1 England.”

Sue Parker, who works at St. Martin’s charity shop, Castleton, predicts a narrow England win:

“My son will be watching it and my husband will log on at work, but I have to stay at work.

“They’re playing rubbish. I hope they win but the way they are playing they’ve no chance. I think England will win 1-0 but no more than that, though there has been some surprises in the tournament.”