England out...

It was an enjoyable game last night, even though England lost, and it’s USA women who will contest the final of the World Cup. England played with heart for ninety minutes, but America played with skill and flair, and had a more coherent game-plan. The 2-1 scoreline didn’t flatter them.

Once they get over the disappointment of crashing out of the competition, the England players will know that their exploits have created a legion of new fans. The viewing figures, on the BBC, increased with every match (7.6 million for England v Norway, and 11 million for England V USA).

The big games keeping coming. Today, a stuttering England must beat New Zealand if they are to progress to the semi-final of the cricketing World Cup. It’s likely to be a tense affair.

Goole docks...