Cape Town - An inefficient England played to a goalless draw against Algeria in their World Cup Group C match on Friday.

England looked far from its best even as the team pressed forward amid boos and jeers from the estimated 30 000 passionate fans following the team.

England's passing was errant, with midfielder Steven Gerrard particularly wasteful.

Algeria looked happy to sit back and look for opportunities to counterattack, but Rafik Halliche had to be alert to head clear a cross by Aaron Lennon intended for Wayne Rooney.

Halliche also blocked a shot by Emile Heskey off a rare England break.

Frank Lampard had the best chance of the match in the first half, but his left-footed shot from 12 meters (yards) was well saved by Algeria goalkeeper M'bohi Rais Ouhed.

Fabio Capello's team, under pressure after their much-criticised 1-1 opener against the United States, struggled to find their rhythm and gave the ball away too easily.

The big news ahead of the game was the axing of West Ham goalkeeper Robert Green after his blunder against the USA. David James took over and saw plenty of action.

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