England bossed their final Group B match against Slovakia from start to finish but failed to find the elusive winner, writes WADE PRETORIUS.

With the news filtering in that Wales had taken a two goal lead of Russia, England’s Three Lions were under pressure to beat Slovakia in order to top the group.

Despite 10 shots in the first half, England had nothing to show on the scoreboard for their domination. That picture did not get better in a lackluster and unimaginative second half.

According to SASoccermag’s Opta-powered match centre, England enjoyed 60% of the possession in Saint Etienne and had 30 shots but only five on target.

England continued to build pressure completing 88% (Slovakia 79%)  of their passes with just 7.7% of the passes being hit long (Slovakia 18.9%). England were successful with 1/3 of their crosses, Slovakia who played the final 25 minutes without a striker such was their determination to eke out a point failed to complete one successful cross.

England’s attacking intention was clear for all to see as they had over 25 touches inside the box while Slovakia’s tally ended on just two touches inside the opposition box.

Roy Hodgson rang the chances with Jamie Vardy, Daniel Sturridge, Wayne Rooney and Harry Kane all having a chance to inspire England to a win. In the end, it was a win for dogged defending and grit as Slovakia ground out a draw.

Hodgson will now be forced to ponder his starting lineup for the next phase of the competition without a clear indication of where goals will come from.