MORULENG, South Africa (AP) — England turned in an unimpressive performance to overcome a South African league club 3-0 Monday in the team’s final training match before it opens its World Cup schedule against the United States.
Jermain Defoe, Joe Cole and Wayne Rooney scored in the victory over the Platinum Stars in front of a small, peaceful crowd.
England coach Fabio Capello changed his entire team at halftime except for midfielder Joe Cole, with only injured midfielder Gareth Barry and goalkeeper David James not playing in the match.
England’s frustrations five days before facing the Americans were encapsulated by Wayne Rooney’s second-half booking for dissent toward the referee.
