August 3, 2001

Youth given their opportunity by England Coach Powell

Colin Aldis

England’s Head Coach Hope Powellhas announced her squad for the England match against Denmark in a Nationwide Friendly International at Northampton Town Football Club╒s Sixfields Stadium on Thursday 23 August 2001, kick off at 7.45pm.

Hope has named the youngest ever England squad with an average age of 24 and no fewer than seven 19 year olds. Although young these girls are experienced players at the international level. The young guns include

Katie Chapman and Rachel Unitt who at 19 are in the elite band of professional players at Fulham LFC. Rachel Unitt is from the Midlands but moved to Fulham in the summer to fulfil her dream of playing full time. Sue Smith, Nationwide International Player of the Year last season is only 21 and has 35 caps and 11 goals .

Denmark, who reached the semi finals of Euro 2001, having won their group, will be stiff competition for England who will be looking to build on the experience of the Championships where they reached the top eight in Europe.

Hope Powell said” The girls learnt valuable lessons in Germany and are looking forward to pitting their wits against one of the Semi-Finalists in preparation for the World Cup qualifiers beginning in September. The game will be a real test as Denmark were ranked in the top 4 after the UEFA Finals and have some very talented players. Their eagerness to play us shows how we truly are an emerging nation in the game. We’re hoping that we’ll get an enthusiastic crowd at Sixfields Stadium to get behind the team and show them how entertaining and skilful the women╒s game is.

Match Information

England v Denmark

Northampton Town Football Club, Sixfields Stadium.

Thursday 23 August 2001. Kick off 7.45pm

Ticket Prices:

Adults and unaccompanied children (U16s) ú3.00

Old Age Pensioners and accompanied children FREE

Ticket hotline number 01604 588338