England's glory is joy of Becks

A DAVID Beckham penalty a minute before half-time gave England the victory they have been waiting for four years – a World Cup win over Argentina.The 1-0 triumph gives England every chance of qualifying for the last 16 of the tournament – something which looked unlikely five days ago when they struggled to a drab 1-1 draw with Sweden.

A DAVID Beckham penalty a minute before half-time gave England the victory they have been waiting for four years – a World Cup win over Argentina.

The 1-0 triumph gives England every chance of qualifying for the last 16 of the tournament – something which looked unlikely five days ago when they struggled to a drab 1-1 draw with Sweden.

It was hard to believe today's performance came from the same side.

After weathering an early storm from Argentina, England took the game to the title favourites and created nearly all the best chances.

Michael Owen – whose brilliant goal in France in 1998 gave England such a bright start against Argentina then – almost did it again when he burst through brilliantly only to hit the post.

And Owen tormented the South Americans' defence again when he teased Pocchettino into tripping him in the box, giving Beckham the chance for the vital penalty kick.

It was not a great penalty by the England skipper – but it was good enough, and what a delight for the man who was so ignominiously sent off in that 1998 clash.

In the end, England were left grimly hanging on – but only after Owen, Paul Scholes, Beckham and substitutes Trevor Sinclair and Teddy Sheringham all went close to extending the lead.