Walcott Stars With Hat-trick

ZAGREB, Teenager Theo Walcottcame of age on the international scene against Croatia as he scored his first international hat-trick, in World Cup 2010 qualifying.

Walcott, starting only his second game for England ahead of David Beckham, scored the opening two goals, before Wayne Rooney scored England’s third.

Croatia pulled one back on seventy seven minutes through Mario Mandzukic, but in reality by this stage is was too late. Walcott sealed an impressive night by claiming his third and England’s fourth to make the final scored 4-1 on the night.

Walcott said of his first goals at senior international level, ”It’s an absolute relief” while paying tribute to his team mates, “the whole team was absolutely fantastic”. Captain John Terry said “we’ve done it our way tonight”. Focusing on the nature of victory and the message it sends around the world “I’m delighted…we’ve beaten them in style”.

Croatia had effectively knocked England out of the previous Euro, beating them twice in qualification. England failed to qualify for the finals of Euro 2008.

England now top group 6 with maximum points after 2 games. Their next assignment is at home to Kazakhstan on October 11.

Ladbrokes will offer you some of the best prices as England’s progress through this qualification group and further into the World Cup Finals.