England Women spirit thrills Phil Neville after France win
Friday 2 March 2018 08:43, UK
Phil Neville was delighted after seeing England Women beat France 4-1 in his first game in charge in the United States.
The reign as manager of the former Manchester United and Everton midfielder started in style with a hard-fought and lively victory for England in testing conditions in their opening SheBelieves Cup fixture in Ohio.
Early goals from Toni Duggan, Jill Scott and Jodie Taylor brushed the French aside before Fran Kirby added a fourth after the interval and despite conceding late on, they eased to only a second win over their rivals in 11 matches.
"Our work ethos has been fantastic in training and we had a game plan," Neville told Sky Sports News.
"We knew they had quality players and so we had to make sure we defended. Fran Kirby was outstanding in the first half and caused all sorts of problems. She had that bit of quality that was too good for them.
"I was a bit nervous before the game and had a few butterflies, but my players didn't. There is great expectation and I love that expectation. On the bus, on the way to the ground, it felt right.
"It felt right standing in the technical area and the most important thing is the players are enjoying the raised expectations and the higher profile. Seeing their smiles at the end, it's all been worthwhile."
England, who face Germany and then hosts USA in the annual tournament, had to deal with wet and windy conditions in Columbus and striker Taylor, who plays for Melbourne, was ecstatic with the team's efforts.
She added: "It was an important game for us and in such a prestigious tournament and Phil's first game in charge.
"The focus coming into it was to be ruthless and organised and have a solid performance and work hard. I think we achieved that."
