Sir Bobby Robson Trophy

Sir Bobby Robson RIP (1933-2009)

ENGLAND (2) 3 Ferdinand, Thompson, Shearer (pen)
GERMANY (2) 2 Helmer, Bobic

SIR Bobby Robson watched on as Alan Shearer helped England XI come back from two goals down to beat Germany XI 3-2 at St James' Park on Sunday.

Sir Bobby, who is battling cancer for a fifth time, made a pre-match appearance on the pitch in his wheelchair.

There was hardly a dry eye in the house as the Italia 90 theme Nessun Dorma was sung while he shook hands with both teams.

Although he looked frail, he was also bursting with pride as he took his place in the directors' box for the game which raised funds for his charity, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation.

Germany started much better and it was no surprise when ex-Sunderland striker Thomas Helmer gave them the lead after just five minutes following a neat move.

On 18 minutes, Fredi Bobic doubled the Germans' advantage with a simple finish after England's defence again struggled to match the pace of their opponents.

England almost replied instantly when Rob Lee fired over his team's first effort from 25 yards before a streaker interrupted proceedings to the mirth of all.

Shortly afterwards, the tide turned in the Three Lions' favour as Shearer became more involved.

First, Shearer won a free-kick down the left which was whipped in by Alan Thompson and converted with a trademark flick-header from Les Ferdinand on 28 minutes.

Then, just four minutes later, Thompson scored direct from another free-kick won by Shearer, curling the ball over the ball and into the top corner to make it 2-2 at half time.

England enjoyed a much more comfortable start to the second half but still relied on some excellent interceptions from Des Walker who looked as lean as ever at centre half.

The Forest fans were clearly right when they sang, "You'll never beat Des Walker". Along with Shearer and Thompson, he was among the most impressive England performers.

The match seemed to be petering out to a draw and yet another penalty shootout against Germany when Shearer made another surge towards the box.

Jens Nowotny made a clumsy challenge on the former England captain in the box. Shearer picked himself up and converted a classic penalty in the corner.

Germany still had time to rattle the Leazes End crossbar after a stunning strike from ex-Rangers man Jorg Albertz.

And only a goalmouth scramble prevented an equaliser as England relaxed and brought on their 'celebrities'.

All in all, a fantastic night for a magnificent man and his very worthy cause.

*To donate online to cancer research charity the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation, click here.