‘Like a Champions League win’ - Kendall’s unforgettable night for England
Lucia Kendall hit the net within six minutes of just her second England start.
“She reacted like a Champions League winner,” remarked England boss Sarina Wiegman with a grin.
For Lucia Kendall, the feeling was almost identical.
The England boss was discussing the instant the Villa player celebrated wildly following her debut international strike – during the opening stages of a 2-0 victory over Ghana at St Mary's Stadium.
“I think the pitch needs some attention after that!” she quipped, in reference to Kendall’s flawless knee slide.
Getting up from her slide, Kendall took in the moment with an amazed expression and a huge grin.
A Dream Return to St Mary's
Kendall was “a fixture” at Southampton – a club where she had spent a decade, coming through their academy and making 103 appearances before joining Villa in July.
So when she scored at St Mary's Stadium on her return, and on only her third England cap, it was the material of fairy tales.
“To do it here, where I was raised, was an immensely special moment. This place shaped the player I am,” Kendall said.
“It felt like it was written [in the stars]. It was so special. I got consumed by emotion really.”
A Meteoric Ascent
Southampton built her foundation, yet a formative decision made when she was 15 shaped her destiny.
A skilled cricketer as well, with a father who played county cricket for Hampshire, she faced a choice between the two pursuits as her football career took off. Football was the choice.
“It presented a dilemma. Juggling both became impossible,” Kendall commented in a previous media conference.
“I loved playing cricket growing up. It was a really difficult decision. I went back and forth, but when the time came, I realised I enjoy football a bit more.”
Her idol growing up as a Chelsea fan was Frank Lampard – an England midfielder famed for his goalscoring talent – and Kendall has begun her career in a similar fashion.
Her ability to manage first-team football alongside a psychology degree signaled the mental fortitude and commitment required for the top level.
The club fought to keep her, but with her deal up, Villa seized the opportunity to introduce her to the top flight.
Within months the Winchester-born player has established herself, becoming a consistent starter in the top flight and earning a place in the England squad.
“Maintaining her level immediately in a new league and club is difficult, yet she has done so,” admitted Wiegman.
“Things have gone so quickly so fast, but she just keeps up her levels and shows she is a good player - and that is impressive.”
Her performance was notable; she struck the woodwork and nearly crafted another chance, preceding Russo’s spot-kick.
Her substitution on the hour mark was met with a resounding reception from fans and an announcer proudly declaring her local roots.
With 29 Southampton goals to her name, she noted, “The trust and consistent playing time I received from 16 proved vital.
“Their unwavering belief in my abilities made me feel prepared for the challenge ahead.
“I understood the need to justify my selection at international level, where the tempo is higher, akin to moving up a league.”
Praise for a Complete Midfielder
Lucia Kendall made 103 appearances for Southampton before her departure in July.
Her seamless transition to the international stage has led to praise for her innate midfield qualities and effortless demeanour.
Wiegman is eager to protect her, saying the media can play a role in that and so can Villa, but she has no concerns because of how “grounded” Kendall is.
In her early interactions with the press, she stressed her willingness to fulfill any role for the benefit of the team.
According to Russo, Kendall’s assimilation was so smooth it seemed she’d been part of the group for ages.
“{This team's just gone on to win back-to
