Christen Press wasted very little time in justifying her selection ahead of in-form Megan Rapinoe by putting the USA ahead against England in the Women’s World Cup semi-final in the 10th minute.
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Rapinoe scored twice in the knockout games against Spain and France, but was left on the bench for the semi-final against Phil Neville’s side.
Press, however, quickly proved why Jill Ellis was right to select her by opening the scoring in Lyon.
The USA worked the ball well to deliver a good cross from the right and Press was free at the back post to head beyond Carly Telford, who replaced Karen Bardsley in goal.
Her header continued the USA’s record of scoring within the opening 12 minutes in all six of their 2019 Women’s World Cup games.
Rapinoe was not thought to be an injury concern, but did not warm up ahead of the match, watching from the sideline instead.
US Soccer did not specify whether the tournament’s joint-leading goalscorer at kick-off was injured.
