A BATTLING performance from England Under-21 Women proved a tough end to their three-match series against Spain in Valencia on Thursday.
Having won the first two matches, England drew 1-1 with their hosts in the final clash after Spain stepped up several gears and gave England a tough time. “That was as competitive a game as we will expect when we go to Germany in a few weeks,” said coach Andy Bradshaw. “It was quite a physical encounter which was good, and the Spanish have got better and better, but it was disappointing not to take a win.
“We created lots of chances and we dominated possession, but the Spanish were good on the break. On reflection we needed more composure in front of goal.
“We had a few corners which we missed, and we had a couple of open play chances which we also didn’t score and this is something to work on.” Spain took the lead after 14 minutes when Lola Riera scored with a good dragflick into the corner, but their lead lasted just five minutes with Steph Elliot scoring with a reverse stick deflection from a corner routine.
