England’s 2-1 victory over Italy in the Arnold Clark Cup should not come as a surprise with the likes of Rachel Daly and Lauren James making light work of it, but there’s still some way to go. Here’s why…
Daly keeps options open
Rachel Daly’s prowess in front of goal has long been the best-kept secret in the England squad. Her ten goals in 13 matches since joining Aston Villa in the summer make her the Women’s Super League joint-top scorer but before Sunday she had had few chances to show what she can do in attack for her country given she was the side’s left-back during last year’s Euros triumph.
But with Ellen White retired and Alessia Russo rested against Italy, Daly’s headed double proved the difference in the Arnold Clark Cup match. The 31-year-old’s striking threat is no surprise to those in the game, however.
Having scored 37 goals during her time in America with Houston Dash, Daly is up to 13 goals in a Lionesses shirt. Sarina Wiegman now has real competition for places up front.
Look out for Lauren
Still a way to go
Women’s football is still not without its challenges in this country despite England’s Euro 2022 triumph. The ball appeared to cross the byline before Sofia Cantore equalised for Italy in Coventry but without goalline technology, the effort stood. Surely goalline tech is the minimum requirement at elite level in 2023, for all matches.
Bigger tests ahead
The Lionesses should wrap up a clean sweep of Arnold Clark Cup victories tomorrow against a Belgium team ranked 20th in the world but it will be games against the likes of South American champions Brazil at a packed Wembley in April which should prove more enlightening ahead of this summer’s shot at World Cup glory.
MORE : Rachel Daly continues England Women’s unbeaten record after crushing Italy
MORE : We’re still buzzing from England’s Euro 2022 win but we’re ready to go again
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