Why the Lionesses matter so much
England's success is more than footballing
Any fair reflection on England’s progress past Sweden to the semi-finals of the Women’s Euros has to note the shocking shootout with only five of the 14 shots finding the target. If that had been the level of shootout in “Gunfight at the O.K. Corral” the producers would have needed a sequel to finish it off. The number of shots missed was astonishing. Lauren James, Beth Mead, Alex Greenwood and Grace Clinton all had their kicks saved. Fortunately for England, Alessia Russo, Chloe Kelly and Lucy Bronze kept their nerves, and Hannah Hampton (and a post) kept defying the Swedes.
There is so much to admire in the way Hampton, Russo, Bronze and the rest of the Lionesses overcame adversity. It’s important that England, the holders, progress in Switzerland for more than sporting reasons. Their influence spreads far from the field of play. Anyone with daughters or any familiarity with the Lionesses’ role model appeal will know their impact. The Lionesses make kids, especially young girls, believe they can achieve. Their success and character make more kids want to take up sport at school.
That should be relentlessly encouraged given the country’s problem with childhood obesity and its long-term strain on the NHS (and impact on tax-payers). The Government might invest more in school sports on the back of the Lionesses’ latest advance. The FA and clubs might also consider investing more in transport to ferry promising young girl players to academies. Spend time with any coach of a women’s team and they lament talent lost because families don’t have the resources, or a car, to get their daughters to a club. If you value the physical and mental health of the nation, you’ll value the Lionesses’ success in tournaments.