A crowd of 12,617 at the Manchester City Stadium have seen some of the most talented footballers from Englands and the world battling each other to help bring in around £100,000 towards the players’ union’s “One Goal, One Million” appeal. The game was aim to raise £1m for a rehabilitation and physio-therapy unit at the new Manchester Children’s Hospital.
The Sunday match is also to mark the 100 years anniversary of the Professional Footballers’ Association. England Legends – managed by Terry Venables, went ahead in the eighth minute when Dennis Wise curled a shot past Neville Southall.
But in the second-half, the rests of the world squad who managed by City manager Sven Goran Eriksson went to lead by three goals from Lorenzo Amoruso, Ian Rush and Ally McCoist.
The England legends socres the consolation goal in the 79th through Jamie Redknapp.
England and Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer, had string of chances to double the England lead in the first half. However, Rest of the World Gianfranco Zola lead the creative force in the centre to dominate the possession.
“It was a pity about the weather, but the fans were able to see a lot of good footballers out there. The only thing they don’t have any more is the pace. But they have the skill.” Said Eriksson, “It was a good match for a good cause. I was proud to take part in it.”