Defoe hat-trick delights England fans

England 4 Bulgaria 0

Jermain Defoe relieved some of the gloom after England’s dismal World Cup by netting a hat-trick in the 4-0 victory over Bulgaria in the opening Euro 2012 qualifier at Wembley.

The Tottenham striker lifted the 73,000 crowd by netting after only three minutes and added a second just after the hour mark.

Substitute Adam Johnson made sure of the points in the 83rd minute before Defoe completed his treble four minutes from time. Wayne Rooney helped to set up all four goals.Bulgaria made a second change with Veselin Minev replacing Manolev with 20 minutes remaining.

Walcott shot over the bar before making way for Manchester City winger Adam Johnson.

Mihaylov parried a low attempt from Gerrard and had the presence of mind to flick the loose ball away from Defoe.

Georgi Peev came on for Popov in the 80th minute.

Adam Johnson curled a shot just past the post after Milner had found him in plenty of space.

Defoe fired a 20 yard effort over the bar as he searched for his hat-trick.

With six minutes left, Rooney was again the creator, this time for Adam Johnson who cut inside before beating Mihaylov at his near post.

Defoe was not to be denied and he completed his treble with a left-footed cross shot with Rooney once again the provider.