CARRYING the FLAG

Time is finally called on England's so-called Golden Generation:
Steven Gerrard sat slumped with head down. Frank Lampard stood hands on hips, teary eyed and biting his lip. John Terry and Ashley Cole seeking out the television cameras to show off their glazed expressions. It's that time again!
Good riddance to bad rubbish as last orders are finally called on England's so-called '˜Golden Generation'. Brutally humiliated 4-1 by a vibrant young Germany side, whom with twenty minutes remaining were so confident of being able to score at a whim against broken opponents, that they instead appeared content to save energy and just stroll home. A now shamed group of players stand embarrassed and disgraced. Their actual talent outweighed by an immeasurable amount compared to bloated ego's and bank balances.
Sheltered from the grim realities of their technical limitations by the monstrous hyperbole of the FA Premier league, they indulge themselves against lower clubs in turkey shoots of seven or eight goals that boosts reputations and pay packets. But come the world cup, here in Bloemfontein on the 28th June 2010, the stark truth has hit home in devastating manner as England have appeared leaden footed against their German counterparts.
All has become smoke and mirrors to confuse good Premiership footballers such as David James, Gareth Barry, Jermaine Defoe, Glen Johnson and God forbid Matthew Upson as world beaters. Only for the haze to clear and what we are left with is the horrific aftermath of a bloody debacle.
Six thousand miles away in England the flags begin to come down. Some ripped, many neatly folded and put away for next time. (will we ever learn?) Others left at half mast, hanging from lamp posts or strewn limply from windows. An emotionally wrecked and exhausted football nation whom unlike their team gave their all.
Sadly as ever it is not enough and once more they are left carrying the flag.

Cfieldsoffire@aol.com