LONDON -- England vs. Scotland is the world's oldest international fixture, dating back to 1872, and at times it seemed both sides were dramatically unsuited to modern football. This was eventually a comfortable 3-0 England victory in World Cup qualifying on Friday. But the score line flattered Gareth Southgate's England side, who allowed Scotland several fine chances when 1-0 ahead.
This was Southgate's third game in charge, and while he can hardly be blamed for England's long-standing problem with passing, the defining feature of his three games has been absolutely wretched distribution from deep positions. Away in Slovenia, where England drew 0-0, Jordan Henderson and Eric Dier both played wayward passes that acted as perfect through-balls for the opposition, and England were rescued by one of keeper Joe Hart's best performances for the national side.