Hodgson’s men show heart and hunger

England caught the mood of the nation with the sort of display that allowed Chelsea to beat both Barcelona and Bayern Munich on their way to winning the Champions League, and although they conceded their first goal and first points under Roy Hodgson, the result was a triumph for grim determination — and a more than satisfactory start to their Euro 2012 campaign.

Just like Roberto Di Matteo’s men needed to defend for their lives to see off opponents who were technically superior, so England’s draw with France owed more to discipline and heart than fine flowing football.

In a game that neither side could afford to lose if they harbour serious ambitions of going far in this tournament, England started well, took the lead through Joleon Lescott on the half-four, but went on the backfoot and allowed Samir Nasri to equalise soon afterwards.