Marvin Sordell Starts For Team GB, Looks Good Before Being Subbed Off

Building on his 45 minute substitute appearance in Great Britain's first Olympics match against Senegal, Marvin Sordell was handed the start against the United Arab Emirates. Sordell had a good game and asserted himself well despite failing to score. Despite this, manager Stuart Pearce did not see fit to give Marvin more than 45 minutes and he made way at the half for Daniel Sturridge.

Just two minutes in, Sordell was instrumental and what was so nearly the opening goal. Craig Bellamy put the ball into the penalty area for Marvin who then laid it off to Aaron Ramsey in the six-yard box, missing just wide. In the 16th minute, Team Great Britain broke through thanks to a Ryan Giggs goal. It was a Bellamy cross into the area that found the head of Giggs with some unnoticed work from Sordell helping out. The young forward drew away his mark, leaving only one man to guard Giggs and he could not rise to the occasion.

Sordell did show his youth a little bit in the 32nd minute after a very heavy touch from the still-raw attacker ended what could have been a very dangerous GB effort. Two minutes afterwards though, Sordell came very close to scoring thanks to a lovely turn on the edge of the box, shaking two UAE defenders. Marvin let go of a wonderful effort that forced the Emirates goalkeeper, Ali Khaseif, into a marvelous save at the bottom corner.

It's still unclear why Sordell was subbed at the half. The substitution would have been harsh if it was based on his performance and we certainly hope it was not a fitness issue. If Sordell had been a bit more selfish (and arguably more confident), he probably could and should have scored a goal today. Either way, he's looking a real threat and should do well for Bolton Wanderers.