France

1-1

England

Diguelman, 89

 

Lattaf (og), 64


World Cup Qualifier
Saturday 30 September 2006
Stade de la Route Lorient, Rennes FC
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Sir Trevor Brooking has paid tribute to the England Women's team after their incredible match with France that gave them a deserved place at next year's World Cup in China.

The FA's Director of Football Development was in Rennes to see the battling 1-1 draw, and he believes that credit must be given to the players and coaches who pulled it off.

"It's very satisfying for a lot of people who have worked very hard over the last few years," Sir Trevor said.

"It was always going to be between ourselves and France to an extent and once they slipped up against Holland we took control.

"It was pretty daunting to come here needing a result but I thought they played very well in the first 20 minutes, they settled down really well. But then it got a little ragged towards the end of the first half.

"I think Hope would have been pleased to hear the half time whistle, but they came out and did well after the interval and to get the goal when they did was a major boost."

Sir Trevor also reflected on the progress that has been made by the team in the past year, since hosting the Women's European Championship last summer.

Sir Trevor said: "Euro 2005 was soon after I arrived and we tried to work on the fitness as it is a very important aspect of the women's game. The higher the level of football the fitter and more consistent the opposition becomes.

"I thought we were unlucky at that tournament and it was a big disappointment because they played very well but did not get the breaks. As the host nation we got some big crowds and huge support so it has helped raise the profile and that will continue after this achievement."

Arsenal defender Anita Asante also came in for special praise for her performance at the heart of the defence. Playing in place of England's injured captain Faye White, Anita showed composure under great pressure and was awarded the Player of the Match award.

"Defensively we are very strong, Mary is hugely experienced and assured, but I thought Anita was absolutely magnificent.

"Faye has been such a core part of the side, so for young Anita to come into the team and do so well as she did - I thought she was outstanding."