ENGLAND UNDER-20s 2

GERMANY UNDER-20s 0

MISERABLE conditions failed to deter a bumper crowd from turning out and roaring on England’s Young Lions at Colchester.

Paul Simpson’s under-20 side hosted Germany at a sell-out JobServe Community Stadium.

And despite swirling rain on a chilly evening, supporters enjoyed a carnival atmosphere and entertaining contest.

Although second best in the first half, England stepped up a gear after the break and scored twice in quick succession through Joe Willock and substitute Lukas Nmecha.

It was so nearly three when Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah beat two men but saw his effort clatter back off the German bar.

It was the seventh time in 11 seasons Colchester’s stadium had hosted an England international.

And it was a sight to behold as the two sides took to the pitch before rousing renditions of the national anthems.

With Colchester’s band in fine fettle and Mexican waves sweeping round the ground, it really was a special occasion for the 7,648 crowd.

Supporters will have enjoyed watching some of the country's brightest young talent, including Ipswich Town duo Trevoh Chalobah and Andre Dozzell.

The latter is the son of former Colchester United midfielder Jason, who was watching from the stands.

The match was still goalless at half-time but only thanks to the outstanding work of England goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

The AFC Bournemouth shot-stopper made four top-class saves, including an acrobatic effort to keep out a cushioned header by Alfons Amade.

The ball looked destined for the far corner as he rose to meet a left-wing cross – only for the keeper to hurl himself and claw it to safety.

Ramstage’s other highlight was another great to stop to palm away a rasping drive from Salih Ozcan.

England’s goal led a charmed life in the first half and Germany so nearly scored just before the half-hour mark, again through Ozcan.

This time, he was denied by the bar after clever wing play from Benjamin Goller.

England’s best effort of the first half came from right-sided playmaker Grady Diangana.

The West Ham midfielder fired into the side-netting after making space in the box.

Willock then fired wide after some trickery in the area.

The goals soon followed, though, sending supporters home happy.

Arsenal’s Willock lashed the hosts ahead, beating his man and clinically slotting home after latching onto a through ball from Nmecha.

Manchester City’s Nmecha then turned home a left-wing cross from Nketiah, putting the gloss on an enjoyable and satisfying night under the Community Stadium lights.