Aggie Beever-Jones scored a 33-minute hat-trick for England All eyes were on goalkeeper Hannah Hampton after a rocky week for the England squad - but just half an hour in, it was someone else taking the spotlight at Wembley. Chelsea forward Aggie Beever-Jones was star of the show, scoring her first England hat-trick in the6-0 thumping of Portugalin the Women's Nations League. The 21-year-old's treble came in just 33 minutes. It was a scintillating performance from Beever-Jones and the Lionesses just five weeks out from Euro 2025 when they will attempt to defend their European title. Noise had been building pre-match following goalkeeperMary Earps' shock international retirement.How would they cope without one of their talismanic leaders? Could Chelsea's Hampton handle the pressure? Clearly, they coped extremely well, and newly confirmed number one Hampton barely had to move a muscle. "Are you not entertained?," said former England goalkeeper Karen Bardsley on BBC Radio 5 Live. "I'm running out of rubber on my eraser because I keep having to change [goalscoring] tally marks. "It's been so fun to watch, with so much fluidity, and the enjoyment this England team has been playing with." Ex-England defender Lindsay Johnson described it as a "Friday night funfest" and even manager Sarina Wiegman celebrated more than usual in the dugout. With so much attention on matters off the pitch over the past week, this was a performance that emphatically shut out the noise and lifted the mood. It was "back to business" as Wiegman claimed afterwards. She had fielded questions regarding Earps' retirement on Thursday, admitting it had been a "hard" start to the week. Wiegman was visibly emotional, reflecting on the good times they shared together and unwilling to discuss how frustrating the sudden departure of the 32-year-old may be. With only 13 caps for Hampton prior to kick-off, and none for the other two goalkeepers in the squad, fears were raised about their inexperience. But when the team in front plays so well, it quickly becomes less of a concern. Hampton spent the majority of the second half stood still, watching on as her team-mates tried to add to their five first-half goals, managing one more through Chloe Kelly. Hat-trick hero Beever-Jones gave some insight into Wiegman's talk before the Group A3 tie: "She said before the game, 'it's a new kit, it's a new England, we have a new squad'." But it wasn't a new England, it was a "vintage" England, according to Bardsley, who was waxing lyrical by the time the fifth goal came in only the 33rd minute, sealing a treble for Beever-Jones. Lucy Bronze nodded in England's second, while Beth Mead joined in on the action and substitute Kelly added the finishing touch with the sixth in the 62nd minute. "This is reminding me of vintage England, casting myself back to 2022," said Bardsley, who made 81 appearances for the Lionesses. "Portugal have been poor, but among the noise, it is so wonderful to see the girls with smiles on their faces." They were not the only ones with smiles on their faces as supporters danced and celebrated at full-time, clearly encouraged by what they had witnessed. England's form has dipped throughout the last 18 months. Just seven weeks ago they were beaten in Leuven by Belgium - who are bottom of the Women's Nations League group - and two months after picking up a victory over world champions Spain at Wembley. But the Lionesses showed they were up to the task when the pressure was on, buoyed by the return of key players Georgia Stanway, Lauren Hemp and Alex Greenwood from injury. "There has been a lot of noise [this week] and players wanted to put that to bed," added Johnson. "Questions in the press conference were relentless and they are going to be. They just want to talk about football and they made it all about the football. "Mary [Earps] will be missed, but when you score six goals in the fashion they did, we are just talking about the football and how good England were." Aggie Beever-Jones is only the second female footballer to score an international hat-trick for England at Wembley, after Beth Mead "Aggie Beever-Jones is a baller," was also Bardsley's statement at full-time as she lauded the matchwinner. The Chelsea forward has given her chances of selection for Euro 2025 a significant boost and Wiegman couldn't help but laugh when asked the question. "I think she did really wellâ¦" said the Dutchwoman with a smile. "She is a goalscorer. She scores goals very easily and very well. She has such quick feet. She is also really tight on the ball, she played really relaxed." Team-mate Kelly said it was great to see Beever-Jones "firing" in an England shirt and Bardsley said she was a "pesky" forward to play against. Competition for a starting role will be hard to come by though. Arsenal's Alessia Russo was watching from the bench, rested for this match after picking up a minor calf injury, while Chelsea's Lauren James has still to return from injury. Hemp was impressive too on her first England game since knee surgery in November, while Mead was on the scoresheet and Kelly proved her worth off the bench. "She really announced herself and put her case forward to Sarina Wiegman so she knows she is capable of starting at the Euros this summer," added Bardsley of Beever-Jones. "Knowing there's that weapon, whether it's on the bench or from the start, is so lovely to know that she's in Sarina Wiegman's tool kit." Beever-Jones looked over to her family to celebrate and revealed the team had signed the match ball to take home afterwards. But whatever her role is at the Euros, she is ready to make an impact. "In football it's never just a straight line. I've had to be patient in this set-up and that just shows the quality the team has," Beever-Jones told BBC Radio 5 Live. "I got the opportunity and I am grateful to everyone who helped me get into this place. I couldn't have hoped for a better day. "I wouldn't want anyone else for competition. Alessia [Russo] is an incredible player, I learn so much off her and the whole frontline. Hopefully I can contribute where I can. "Whenever I'm playing for England I just hope I'm giving the right people the right headaches." Head here to get involved
Are you not entertained? 'Vintage England' deliver under pressure
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Aggie Beever-Jones Shines with Hat-Trick in England's 6-0 Victory Over Portugal"
Bbc News
7.4
TruthLens AI Summary
Aggie Beever-Jones emerged as the standout performer for the England women's football team, scoring a remarkable hat-trick within just 33 minutes during their 6-0 victory over Portugal in the Women's Nations League. This match took place at Wembley and was particularly significant given the backdrop of goalkeeper Mary Earps' unexpected retirement, which left many questioning how the team would adapt. However, Beever-Jones' scintillating performance, alongside her teammates, quickly silenced any doubts. England coach Sarina Wiegman had to navigate a challenging week filled with media inquiries about Earps' departure, but her squad responded emphatically with a display that showcased both skill and teamwork. The Lionesses scored five goals in the first half alone, with Lucy Bronze and Beth Mead also contributing to the tally, while Chloe Kelly capped off the scoring in the second half. The match was described by former players as a return to 'vintage England,' reflecting a style of play that had fans and commentators alike reminiscing about previous successes.
The performance not only lifted the spirits of the team but also highlighted the depth of talent within the squad, as key players like Georgia Stanway and Lauren Hemp returned from injury. Despite concerns over the inexperience of goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, who had only 13 caps before this match, the team's cohesion rendered such worries moot. Beever-Jones, who is only the second female footballer to score an international hat-trick at Wembley, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity and emphasized the importance of competition within the squad. Her impressive showing has significantly bolstered her chances for selection in the upcoming Euro 2025 tournament, as she aims to contribute further to the team's success. The match concluded with a sense of optimism for the Lionesses, as they look to build on this performance and prepare for future challenges in international football.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights a significant performance by the England women's national football team, particularly focusing on Aggie Beever-Jones' impressive hat-trick against Portugal. This match comes in the context of recent turmoil within the squad, specifically the retirement of goalkeeper Mary Earps, which had raised concerns about team morale and performance. The narrative centers on overcoming adversity and showcasing resilience in the face of pressure.
Public Perception and Community Sentiment
The piece aims to create a positive image of the England women's team, emphasizing their ability to perform under pressure and deliver an entertaining match. By focusing on the excitement of the game and Beever-Jones' remarkable achievement, the article seeks to bolster community support and pride in the national team, particularly as they prepare for Euro 2025.
Potential Concealment of Issues
While the article celebrates the team's success, it may downplay the underlying challenges, such as the impact of Earps' retirement and the inexperience of the new goalkeeper, Hannah Hampton. The narrative primarily showcases a triumphant moment, potentially obscuring concerns about stability and team dynamics that could affect future performances.
Manipulative Elements and Reliability
The article employs a celebratory tone and vibrant language, which can be seen as a form of manipulation to evoke excitement and positivity. This approach may distract from more serious issues within the squad. However, the factual nature of the reporting, focusing on a specific match and performance, adds to its reliability. The overall sentiment is largely positive, which may influence readers to overlook the challenges faced by the team.
Comparative Context and Connections
In comparison to other sports news, this article aligns with a trend of highlighting accomplishments and dramatic moments in sports to engage fans. It connects to broader narratives about women's sports gaining visibility and support, particularly in the wake of significant events like the Women's World Cup. The focus on entertainment and performance may resonate with a wider audience, enhancing the overall image of women's football.
Impact on Society and Future Scenarios
The uplifting tone of this article could foster increased interest and support for women’s football, potentially leading to higher attendance at games and encouraging young girls to participate in sports. This, in turn, could contribute to a more robust sports culture and greater investment in women's athletic programs.
Target Audience and Community Support
This article is likely to appeal to a broad audience, including football fans, supporters of women's sports, and those interested in national pride. It aims to engage communities that value resilience and success in sports, particularly among younger demographics.
Market Influence and Financial Implications
While there may not be a direct impact on stock markets, positive news about the women's national team can influence sponsorship deals and investments in women's sports leagues, which are increasingly gaining traction. Companies associated with women's football may see a boost in visibility and market engagement.
Geopolitical Relevance
The article does not have significant geopolitical implications but contributes to the ongoing discourse around women's rights and representation in sports. It reflects a broader societal shift towards recognizing and valuing women's contributions in traditionally male-dominated arenas.
Artificial Intelligence Considerations
There is no clear indication that artificial intelligence was used in the writing of this article. However, if AI were involved, it might have influenced the tone and structure to emphasize engagement and entertainment value, steering the narrative towards a more positive depiction of the events.
In summary, the article effectively captures a moment of triumph for the England women's team while potentially glossing over more complex issues within the squad. Its celebratory tone aims to rally support for women’s football and enhance community pride, making it a generally reliable piece despite its manipulative undertones.