France

1-1

England

Diguelman, 89

 

Lattaf (og), 64


World Cup Qualifier
Saturday 30 September 2006
Stade de la Route Lorient, Rennes FC
Photo Gallery - Click Here

Hope Powell was absolutely ecstatic in the aftermath of England's dramatic result in Rennes that clinched qualification for the World Cup in China, and heaped praise on her players who stood up to the test.

"The whole year has been brilliant, the players have just grown and grown in stature," Hope explained.

"To come away from home and get a draw against France is just fantastic and now we have so much to look forward to."

Hope was also delighted with the confidence that her players showed under such great pressure, outlining just how much had been achieved since Euro 2005.

"That's been part of the journey, not losing in the last year mean't that we came here with some confidence - especially after the performance against Holland.

"I'm just so glad it's over, I think the girls were magnificent. But I think over the whole course of the qualifiers, we deserved it. I'm absolutely delighted."

Hope also expressed her sympathy for the French side who provided a stern test throughout qualifying.

"Our backs were against the wall but we stuck to our game plan. We knew it would be tough. A lot of credit must go to the French, they're a good side.

"Five teams from Europe is not enough, there is too much quality here for there to be only five teams at the World Cup, and that is unfortunate for France tonight. We were unlucky last time, and this time I'm just glad it's us."