Manchester United Women's goalkeeper Mary Earps was forced to pick herself off the floor to claim the World Cup Golden Glove after England were beaten 1-0 by Spain in the final on Sunday.
The Lionesses suffered heartbreak in Sydney as Olga Carmona’s 29th-minute effort proved decisive, ending hopes of. first World Cup since 1966. Earps was once again outstanding, keeping hopes alive with a brilliant second-half penalty save.
Unfortunately, Spain were able to hold on despite the missed spot-kick and Earps fell to the ground after more than 14 minutes of extra-time and the full-time whistle. The Reds' shot-stopper cut a devastated figure and was consoled by her international teammates.
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She was awarded the Golden Glove for the tournament's best goalkeeper, consistently producing excellent saves during her time in Australia. The 30-year-old was able to pick herself up and claim the award, alongside Golden Ball winner Aitana Bonmati of Spain.
Former England men's goalkeeper David Seaman was full of praise for Earps as she picked up the award. He tweeted: “What a spectacular women’s World Cup and what a tournament @maryearps027 has had!! “SOOO proud of the #Lionesses.”
Earps and her Lionesses teammates were inconsolable after the full-time whistle, having been tipped as favourites going into the final. Lucy Bronze was among several in tears as the players waved to any remaining fans after picking up their runners-up medals.
"It feels bad now," manager Sarina Wiegman told the BBC post-match. "What we have done, how we have shown ourselves, who we are, overcome so many challenges, I think we can be very proud of ourselves - even if it doesn't feel that way now."
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