Snapshot: ‘Au Revoir Angleterre!’ – England Women Out Of World Cup On Penalties (Photos & Highlights)

Chris Wright

10th, July 2011

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By Chris Wright

After leading since the hour mark courtesy of Jill Scott’s looping 20-yard drive, England women were within spitting-distance of making it through to the last four of the World Cup in Leverkusen last night when they were pegged back by France with three minutes of normal time left to play when Elise Bussaglia sent a superb curling effort clipping in off the upright in what seemed to be sloooooow-motion.

After hobbling through another knackering half-an-hour of extra-time, Hope Powell’s side were eventually nudged out of the tournament when, with the shoot-out standing at 4-3 in France’s favour, England captain Faye White’s decisive penalty pinged off the top of the crossbar and into the stands – as if it was ever going to end any other way.

Cue the inevitable heartache…

Louisa Necib – y’know, just because…

Jill Scott puts England a goal to the good from the edge of the area

Elise Bussaglia (left) equalises for France at the arse-end of normal time

Faye White’s penalty beats France ‘keeper Celine Deville only to glance off the crossbar and over

France celebrate their progression through to the semis as Faye White is consoled by referee Jenny Palmqvist

England ‘keeper Karen Bardsley sits dejected on the turf


Vive la France, au revoir Angleterre!

Highlights…

http://youtu.be/0wDF5U9PgfE

Absolutely nothing to be ashamed about or sorry for girls, you did you country proud – a damn sight prouder than the men’s side have managed in a long, long while.

Pies doffs it cap, now please excuse us while we go and have a little cry.

[Photos: PA]