Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: England entered the final of the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time by triumphing over Australia with a 3-1 victory in Sydney on Wednesday.
Ella Toone gave England the lead in the 36th minute when she unleashed a powerful shot into the Australian net after a splendid pass from Russo.
However, Australia’s Sam Kerr equalized in the 63rd minute. Kerr received the ball at the halfway line and surged forward toward Millie Bright before delivering a powerful shot from 30 yards beyond the England keeper.
England stored the lead eight minutes later. Hemp capitalized on an Australian defensive error and slotted the ball beyond Australian keeper Arnold from within the six-yard box.
Kerr had two opportunities to restore parity. However, she failed on both occasions, much to the disappointment of the home crowd.
England took the game away from Australia in the 86h minute, with Hemp creating a stunning pass for Russo who executed the move flawlessly.
England Coach Sarina Wiegman said England stuck to the plan and it worked again. “We have been talking about ruthlessness all the time and this team has ruthlessness, whether it is up front or in defense. We want to keep the ball out of the net and we really want to win,” she added.
Australian Coach Tony Gustavsson rued missed opportunities. “In the 81st, 83rd and 85th minutes, we had three sitters in a row. It’s a failure to lose a game, (but) I am happy that the fans gave the players support after the game,” he added.
England will now meet Spain in the final on Sunday.
(With inputs from FIFA)
