1-0 to the Engerland

England crept into the knock out stages of the World Cup with a Jermain Defoe first half goal. Our opponents Slovenia I was told as yet unconfirmed have a population the size of Norfolk's and a semi professional football league perhaps that puts into into perspective. Relief rather than joy ! On Sunday we face the old enemy , Germany. I suppose there is an element of fate here.

Maybe the England team will perform better against opposition that will test them fully. Hopefully the printed media can resist the temptation to visit past battles !

The evening was spent at our local NUT meeting and a discussion on the CON DEm governments proposal for Academies and Free Schools. At present there is rumour and conjecture about what schools might jump ship and strive for academy status.The Grammar Schools in Chelmsford seem prime candidates to become what will become, state funded independent schools.

Surrey secured their second victory in two days, defeating Kent. Jason Roy, a nineteen year old batsman, who was coached through his time at Whitgift School, became the first Surrey player to score a T20 century. How ironic that Roy should come into the side because Mark Ramprakash has been given a bmid tournament break.