England did things hard way, but got the job done

WELL done to England and well done to Hannah Hampton. I was glued to the television on Thursday evening as England put us and themselves through the wringer and eventually came out on top against Sweden via a combination of quality and belief.

- By Mike Pejic

They're in the European Championships semifinals now and anything can happen. They'll be glad that they have a few days to get their breath back before they take on Italy because I know I am and I was only watching.

Hampton was the hero and it reflects well on her old coaches at Stoke City when she still talks about their role in her development. She's clearly an excellent goalkeeper and she has the spirit that makes top players stand out too.

She took a right whack in extra-time but there was no chance she was coming off. She wants to be playing for her national team on the biggest occasions and the progress she has made over a relatively short period of time has been remarkable.

Good on her. It might have been an intimidating prospect to have Mary Earps in front of you but a good manager leaves the door open to someone who can get through on merit. You shouldn't win caps on reputation and Hampton has burst in and grabbed the chance.

I should say, in the nicest possible way, that I hope I see less of her now! Firstly, it is always great if a goalkeeper is called upon less to be the hero although all the drama up to and including the shootout last time out was great fun as a spectator.