England Women Fall at World Cup Quarter Final Stage

The 2022 World Cup dream is over for England’s Women, with a tight 1-0 defeat to world number two side Argentina in the quarter finals on Wednesday evening.

England began their campaign in Amsterdam with a 1-1 draw against India, with Izzy Petter, the former Colt who will return to Surbiton for the coming season, scoring a deft deflection in the eighth minute. England’s defence was stoic, with a single goal conceded from 11 defensive penalty corners.

This was followed by a disappointing 3-1 defeat against New Zealand. Despite having the lion’s share of possession, England could not follow up Lily Owsley’s third minute opener. They were left to rue a controversial disallowed drag flick strike from Grace Balsdon but failed to convert their multiple penalty corner opportunities.

This left an important final group game against China, which finished 2-0 to England. The team put in a solid performance, but also got the rub of the green this time, with both goals coming from slightly fortunate penalty corner strikes from Balsdon and SHC’s returning player Giselle Ansley.

Second place in Pool B meant a trip to Terrassa and a crossover game with South Korea to secure a quarter final berth. England were good value for a 5-0 win, with a brace from SHC’s Ansley and one for Hannah Martin in addition to strikes by Tess Howard and Ellie Rayer.

Argentina came into the quarter final in hot form, having scored 15 and conceded only twice on their way to maximum points in Pool C. England withstood an early barrage of fast and skilful Argentinian attacks and gradually began to grow into the game. A field goal for Las Leonas at the start of the final quarter ultimately proved England’s undoing, despite late attacking chances and a couple of outstanding saves from veteran Argentine goalkeeper Belen Succi.

It was confirmed after the quarter finals were completed that England’s final tournament ranking is eighth. This is based on the pool stage performances of the losing quarter finalists.

The England players now face a quick turnaround as they prepare to go for glory at a home Commonwealth Games. Birmingham 2022 starts on July 29th - look out for our guide to all home nations matches coming soon.

England Women: World Cup Statistics

• Final ranking: 8th
• Wins: 2
• Draws: 1
• Defeats: 2
• Goals scored: 9
• Goals conceded: 5
• Top scorer: Giselle Ansley (3)