EARPS: WE CAN RIDE THE BLOWS

WOMEN'S WORLD CUP Injury-hit Lionesses' squad defiant

- Neil MOXLEY

MARY EARPS saluted the Lionesses' true grit as they refused to be diverted from their World Cup goal.

England's keeper paid tribute to the mental strength of Sarina Wiegman's squad after they moved close to sealing a spot in the knock-out stages.

They did so against the backdrop of a horrific injury to star performer Keira Walsh, whose tournament appears to be over following an issue with her knee.

It is the latest in a long list of injuries that have befallen the Lionesses as they look to land the game's biggest prize.

Skipper Leah Williamson, striker Beth Mead and playmaker Fran Kirby were all ruled out months ago.

But skipper Millie Bright also faced a race against time to be fit. She hadn't played in four months until she stepped out against Haiti.

And while Walsh's knock may not be as bad as first feared, it is nevertheless a significant body blow.