Spain win 4-0 but are flattered by the scoreline
Serial underachievers Spain got their World Cup off to a flying start today by beating the Ukraine 4-0. Xabi Alonso score the first via a header and David Villa was lucky to scored the next two. His first was a free kick which took a wicked deflection off the Ukrainian wall to give keeper Shovkovskiy no chance. His second from a “penalty” second was even more fortunate. Fernando Torres was apparently “brought down” by defender Vashchuk; yes Vashchuk had pulled Torres’s shorts momentarily outside the area, but this did not impede Torres from charging on and getting his shot off which was well saved by Shovkovskiy. As he shot, he slipped and upon falling flapped his arm at the referee, who was conned and gave a penalty. From then on it was all one-way traffic and Torres finished the Ukrainians off with a great fourth, volleying in Puyol’s knockdown from the edge of the box.
So what should we make of the Spanish? Are they finally set to deliver? They played well but they also enjoyed considerable luck. In addition the Ukraine were worse than terrible, with Shevchenko isolated and receiving no service. With matches against Saudi Arabia and Tunisia to come Spain should easily qualify for the next stage in from what is the easiest group..mind you Spain have been there before and failed.
