Notts County and England ladies defender Laura Bassett scored an agonizing injury time goal as the lionesses lost 2-1 to Japan in the world cup semis.
The game looked to be heading for extra time with the scores still at 1-1 after 90 minutes but two minutes into stoppage time, Laura Bassett diverted a Japan players cross into her own net, over the head of goalkeeper Karen Bardsley.
The own goal sent current holders Japan through to face the USA in Monday’s World Cup final (00:00 kick off).
Japan dominated possession with 62% but failed to create many clear cut chances with England registering more shots on goal but failed to make any of them count.
In a tight, nervy game it was a penalty from Aya Miyama after 32 minutes which broke the deadlock. It only took England eight minutes to respond however with a spot-kick of their own, converted by Fara Williams.
Laura Bassett’s Notts and England team-mate, goalkeeper Carly Telford tweeted about how proud she was of her compatriot.
My roomy, my teamate, my captain + a very close friend @laurabassett6 you are a credit to this nation!!! So proud to be part of team❤️ #ENG
— Carly Telford (@carlytelford1) July 2, 2015
Picture: Notts and England keeper Carly Telford tweets about Laura Bassett.
Mark Sampson, the Lionesses’ Head Coach told the players that it was okay to cry, clearly heartbroken himself but did not blame Laura for the exit stating that she epitomised the team in Canada with her strength and courage.
At the final whistle, Laura broke down in tears but was consoled by her team-mates.
The lionesses will fly home in the next few days, but can do so with their heads held high, being the third England side to reach a semi finals of a World Cup after the men did it in 1990 and of course 1966 where they went on to win it.
