Smalling strike gives England the edge

Chris Smalling's late goal gave England a narrow but vital lead to take to Romania in their UEFA European Under-21 Championship play-off.

The visitors had marginally the better of an even first period, Gabriel Torje hitting the post on the stroke of half-time. England gained the upper hand after the interval, Jordan Henderson volleying them in front only for Romania to respond quickly through Ioan Hora's deflected effort. With seven minutes left, however, Smalling turned in from a corner to ensure England take an advantage into Tuesday's second leg in Botosani.

Finalists in 2009, Stuart Pearce's side did not book their play-off place until last month but were swiftly into their stride at Carrow Road. As early as the fourth minute Romania goalkeeper Silviu Lung had to react swiftly to turn over Henderson's fierce volley from the edge of the penalty area.

Thereafter Romania looked the more likely scorers, Phil Jones clearing Paul Papp's effort off the line before Frank Fielding saved from Eric Bicfalvi. The goalkeeper was beaten in the final minute of the opening period as the home defence afforded Torje time and space in the penalty area and were nearly made to pay, the Romania captain's shot striking the base of the post.

England turned the tables on their visitors in the second period, seizing control of midfield and breaking the deadlock just past the hour. Henderson connected perfectly with another volley from 20 metres and this time Lung was unable to keep it out.

The lead lasted only eight minutes; Hora's ball in from the right deflected off Ryan Bertrand to leave Fielding helpless and give Romania a valuable away goal. It was not enough to earn a draw, however, as substitute Daniel Sturridge – who later sent a free header wide – and Jack Wilshere each connected with a deep corner, Smalling eventually prodding the loose ball into the roof of the net from close range.