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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Barney Ronay at Wembley

Kane has been the defining player of an era, but this thing has run its course

England’s Harry Kane during the 5-0 win over Republic of Ireland.
England’s Harry Kane struggles during the 5-0 win over Republic of Ireland. Photograph: Tom Jenkins/The Guardian

There was an oddly heartbreaking moment with 87 minutes gone at Wembley, as Harry Kane was put through on goal with a chance to score his second of the night, made all the more tender by the fact he seemed so desperately keen to do exactly that with England already 5-0 up.

Mainly it was heartbreaking because of the way Kane reached down to pump the accelerator, and just found nothing, a man suddenly running backwards through time, wind chimes tinkling. The finish was rushed and too close to the goalkeeper. Kane ended up flat on his face. He didn’t stop, passing and pointing and leading this team of tyros to the final whistle. Maybe he can wear his Bobby Charlton top next time and still take all the penalties.

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