Yes, it did break in half. It came out quite easily and was not adhered to the valve cover in any way. Used a pair of seizers to fish it out (every mechanic should have a pair or three of different shapes) ...

http://www.apexhandtools.com/brands/xcelite/index.cfm?model_list=1&att_id=XCE009&att1=Accessor ies&att2=Seizers