England under 21s reach Euro 2011 playoffs
Danny Welbeck struck twice as England under 21s beat Lithuania 3-0 at Colchester United’s Community Stadium, earning qualification for the Euro 2011 playoffs in the process.
Sunderland forward Welbeck – on loan at the north east club from Manchester United – ended over an hour’s worth of frustration for the home side when he slotted home from substitute Jack Wilshere’s pass.
Aston Villa’s Marc Albrighton then tapped in a Welbeck cross at the far post to double England’s advantage, before Welbeck latched on a clever Jordan Henderson flick to add a third in stoppage time.
The victory ensures that England finish second in Group 9, two points behind group winners Greece, and qualify for the playoffs as one of the second-placed teams with the most points.
Elsewhere there was disappointment for Wales, who miss out on the playoffs by goal difference after a 1-0 defeat in Italy.
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