With so many players struggling, the fact that England were still in the game was a testament to their battling qualities and team spirit. The second period of extra time was almost exclusively played inside their half, but despite a header from substitute Eugenie Le Sommer going over the bar, few chances were created.
And so to penalties. Camille Abily saw her spot kick saved by Bardsley, while Kelly Smith blasted hers home despite limping to the spot. Bussaglia and Carney traded successful spot kicks, as did Thiney and Stoney. Bompastor made no mistake, but Claire Rafferty screwed her chance wide. With one penalty to go, it was sudden death. Le Sommer scored but Faye White’s penalty clipped the top of the crossbar. The skipper’s miss sent France through to a semi-final against Brazil or USA ”“ and England home without having lost a game in the competition.
Read it all.
The English Women's Soccer Team Loses in Agonizing Fashion in World Cup Quarterfinal
With so many players struggling, the fact that England were still in the game was a testament to their battling qualities and team spirit. The second period of extra time was almost exclusively played inside their half, but despite a header from substitute Eugenie Le Sommer going over the bar, few chances were created.
And so to penalties. Camille Abily saw her spot kick saved by Bardsley, while Kelly Smith blasted hers home despite limping to the spot. Bussaglia and Carney traded successful spot kicks, as did Thiney and Stoney. Bompastor made no mistake, but Claire Rafferty screwed her chance wide. With one penalty to go, it was sudden death. Le Sommer scored but Faye White’s penalty clipped the top of the crossbar. The skipper’s miss sent France through to a semi-final against Brazil or USA ”“ and England home without having lost a game in the competition.
Read it all.