Bristol City manager Nigel Pearson labelled the success of the England Women’s team as “immeasurable” after they lifted the Euro 2022 trophy at Wembley following a 2-1 victory over Germany in extra-time.
Chloe Kelly’s close-range finished secured the first major piece of silverware for the Lionesses, in what has been a remarkable rise by the national team since Sarina Wiegman took over in September 2021.
Former Bristol City forward Lauren Hemp, who played for the Robins between 2016-2018 before signing for Manchester City, started her sixth game of the tournament and played 120 minutes before she substituted late on to help run the clock down. England goalkeeper Mary Earps, now of Manchester United, also spent one season with Bristol Academy - later named Bristol City - from 2014/15.
England’s run to the final has enraptured the nation and their triumph in north London could prove a landmark moment for the growth of the women’s game in the country.
Taking to Twitter within a few moments of full-time, Pearson wrote: "Huge congratulations to the Lionesses on their Euro 2022 triumph.
"What they have achieved today and throughout this tournament for the women's game's status is immeasurable. Wishing everyone at Bristol City WFC all the best for this season too. Cheers, Nige.”
Pearson has been a consistent and vocal backer of the City Women’s team since he joined the club in February 2020. The 58-year-old was a regular spectator at the High Performance Centre last season for Championship matchdays and head coach Lauren Smith has hailed his support on a day-to-day basis at Failand, as the men’s, women’s and academy all work side-by-side, and advice he’s provided.
Bristol City Women, who finished third in the second tier last term under Smith, get their Championship season underway on August 21 with a trip to Coventry City with their first home game of the campaign against Blackburn Rovers the following Sunday.
Smith has bolstered her backroom staff with the arrival of former Lionesses defender Anita Asante who also helped provide commentary and analysis during England games at Euro 2022.
Bristol Rovers manager Joey Barton also tweeted congratulations, noting the impact of Dutch coach Wiegman since she succeeded Phil Neville less than a year ago.
"Congratulations to Sarina Wiegman and the coaching group," Barton wrote. "Amazing turnaround from the last Women’s World Cup."
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