The Lionesses were left frustrated after a 1-1 draw against Australia Women at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night, compounded by a series of controversial refereeing decisions.
Referee Florence Guillemin turned down two strong penalty appeals for England.
Despite this, it was another good performance from England in the first game they have played in the capital since 2014. The teams last met in 2015 where a hat-trick from Jodie Taylor proved the quality England possess.
Encouraging Signs
On 21 minutes, Chelsea star Fran Kirby found the back of the net after a disappointing clearance from Matilda’s keeper Mackenzie Arnold. Beth Mead was quick to gain possession and found Kirby in a good position to slot the ball past Arnold.
The Lionesses could have doubled their lead before half time but Lucy Staniforth’s goal was ruled out for offside, a decision that was later proved incorrect.
This strike partnership between Arsenal striker Mead and Chelsea’s Kirby gave Australia’s defence a lot to think about, with continuing pressure and multiple chances missed to further the lead.
Nikita Parris and Rachel Daly were brought into the game on the hour mark. There was enthusiasm from fans around Parris joining the match off the back of her impressive performance against Brazil on Saturday.
A dominant attacking force from England was a highlight. They were continuously pushing up and finding extra space to create better chances, a positive to take from this friendly.
Frustrating Finish
Six minutes from time, Australia netted an equaliser thanks to Clare Polkinghorne’s close range header from Elsie Kellond-Knight’s corner which denied England the win.
A game with many positives was overshadowed by disappointment from fans, players and the manager, with criticism of the officials and missed opportunities which could have been crucial for turning the tie in England’s favour.
Clearly angered by decisions against them, manager Phil Neville was prompt to exit the pitch at full time avoiding interviews for a while after being overcome with emotions from the game.
World Cup Fever
This friendly followed on from a historic 1-0 win against Brazil for the first time with Fran Kirby getting on the scoresheet again.
With France preparing to host the World Cup in under a year, England’s performances in the friendlies against Brazil and Australia have shown the talent and strength within the squad, putting them in a promising place as the tournament draws closer.
