England get World Cup lift with win over Hungary

England ground out a 3-1 victory over Hungary in a World Cup warm-up yesterday, with teenage striker Theo Walcott making history for the hosts.

Early second-half headers from Steven Gerrard and John Terry put England in front after Frank Lampard's penalty was saved in the closing stages of the first half.

Hungary skipper Pal Dardai pulled a goal back with a superb 25-metre shot in the 55th minute but substitute Peter Crouch rifled home England's third in the 84th minute.

It was a special night for Walcott, who came on as a second-half substitute to become England's youngest player at 17 years and 75 days.

Striker Wayne Rooney, whose injury has sent shockwaves through England's World Cup preparations, set the previous record at 17 years and 111 days.