England took a massive step towards finishing top of their Women’s Euro 2017 group with a victory over Spain that was marred by some strange decisions from the officials.
The Lionesses took the lead in the second minute when a pass from Ellen White carved open the Spanish defense and found Fran Kirby, who placed the ball past the goalkeeper. It looked like England had increased their cushion when Millie Bright powered a header into the net from just inside the box. However, an offside flag was shown even though it could be argued that the player who was penalised, Lucy Bronze, was in no position to interfere with the course of the ball.
Spain dominated possession in the match with 78% and they thought that they had a golden chance to equalise when White misjudged the ball in the penalty area and it bounced from her foot onto her hand. A penalty was given and as England argued against this, the referee completely u-turned and gave a free kick to the Lionesses.
This was a major turning point of the match and England found more holes in the Spanish defense who were pressing forward. Jordan Nobbs flicked the ball into one of these holes, which Jodie Taylor took full advantage to squeak the ball past the goalkeeper for her fourth of the tournament. The Lionesses just need a draw against Portugal to guarantee finishing top of Group D, whilst Spain hang onto second on goal difference after Portugal defeated Scotland 2-1.
What did you make of the two major incidents in this match and how far do you think either team will get in this tournament? Write your thoughts in the comment box below.
The Blogging DJ 