Gareth Bale goal: Wales superstar scores long-range screamer to put Welsh in front – but England goalkeeper Joe Hart should do better
Bale's free kick sailed into the corner from 35 yards as Peter Schmeichel and Oliver Khan criticise Hart's unnecessary wall
GARETH BALE opened the scoring in the Battle of Britain with a long-range free-kick in Lens.
But England fans were left scratching their heads at Joe Hart's inability to turn the Wales star's shot round the post, as the Three Lions went into half-time a goal down.
England should have led when Adam Lallana sent over an early cross, but Raheem Sterling failed to convert a glorious chance, sending the cross over.
Roy Hodgson's England dominated possession, having 68 per cent of it, but failed to create anything clear cut as the Welsh back five stood firm.
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The game seemed to be heading for a scoreless half before Bale stepped up from range.
The Real Madrid star was a long, long way from goal but, surprisingly shaped to shoot.
Bale's shot moved through the air but, 35 yards out, England goalkeeper Hart simply had to save.
He even got two hands to the ball but it somehow squirmed into the bottom corner after touching the post.
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel was not impressed with Hart.
On Twitter, he wrote: "Look at the wall.
"That's the biggest mistake by Hart, don't put one up.
"If he doesn't he can start in the MIDDLE of the goal."
He added: "So even if the ball is all over the place he can move quicker.
"Also the wall becomes a target only 10 yards away, gives better aim for Bale."
Hart also came in for criticism from former Germany No 1 Oliver Khan.
He told German TV: "I have no clue why Joe Hart wanted a wall for that free-kick.
";No way Bale scores without the wall there"
Wales lead 1-0 at half-time.
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