England U17s roar to victory over Hungary in EURO U17 qualifier

England's Under-17s maintained their 100% record in the EURO U17 Qualifiers with a comprehensive 4-0 victory over Hungary at the MOL Arena Sosto on Thursday 23 March.

The Young Lions, who won their opening two matches against Armenia and Finland, were in dominant form throughout and took the lead just before the half-hour mark through Sonny Perkins.

Perkins, who plays his club football for Leeds United, showed great composure to control a long ball forward before slotting it past Hungary goalkeeper Gergo Szecsi.

England doubled their lead shortly after the break when Rio Murray found the bottom corner with a low drive from the edge of the box.

Substitute Charlie McNeill then put the game beyond doubt with two goals in quick succession, taking his tally for the tournament to four.

The Manchester United forward made it 3-0 in the 67th minute with a clinical finish from close range, before adding a fourth just two minutes later with a powerful header from a corner.

It was a thoroughly deserved victory for England, who controlled the game from start to finish and created numerous chances.

Unbeaten run continues

The win means that England have now won all three of their matches in the EURO U17 Qualifiers and are top of their group with nine points.

They will face their toughest test yet when they take on Portugal in their final group match on Saturday 25 March.

Portugal are also unbeaten in the qualifiers and will provide a stern test for England's young lions.

But on the evidence of their performance against Hungary, England will be confident of securing the victory they need to qualify for the EURO U17 finals.

Three Lions impress

Three England players in particular caught the eye against Hungary.

Sonny Perkins, who has scored three goals in the tournament so far, was a constant threat to the Hungarian defence with his pace and movement.

Rio Murray was also impressive in central midfield, controlling the tempo of the game and providing the assist for Perkins' goal.

And Charlie McNeill, who came off the bench to score two goals, showed why he is regarded as one of the hottest prospects in English football.

Looking ahead

England will now turn their attention to their match against Portugal on Saturday.

A victory over the Portuguese would see them qualify for the EURO U17 finals, which will be held in Israel in May.

The Young Lions will be hoping to continue their impressive form and reach the latter stages of the tournament.