On a wet night in Accrington, England’s U23 side wrapped up their 2025 season with a tough match against the United States. The visitors wasted no time asserting themselves; barely two minutes had passed when Emeri Adames pounced from close range, putting the Americans ahead before England had found their rhythm.
England reacted well to the early blow. They pushed up the pitch with confidence, holding most of the ball and creating several promising attacks through the wings and midfield. Even with their lively build-up play, the hosts struggled to produce a decisive finish, and their missed chances gradually became a problem.
As the first half wore on, the USA doubled their advantage. A quick move starting from a throw-in allowed them to work the ball into space near the penalty area, where Maddy Dahlien struck a precise effort into the far corner, leaving goalkeeper Faye Kirby with little chance. England went into half-time two goals behind, a scoreline that didn’t quite match the control they’d shown in spells.
After the break, England came out determined to change the momentum. In the 53rd minute, Lancashire’s own Jess Simpson whipped a free-kick into a packed box, and the ball eventually fell for Neeku Purcell to turn in, giving the hosts a much-needed lift. Kirby then produced an important save to keep the gap at one goal, hinting that England might turn the game around.
That optimism didn’t last long. The USA quickly re-established their cushion when Dahlien set up Sarah Weber to score. England refused to fold, and Keira Barry soon answered with a sharp finish that brought the score to 3–2, breathing new energy into the home side.
However, any hopes of a comeback faded in the final stages. With less than twenty minutes left, Ally Sentnor netted the USA’s fourth goal, effectively ending England’s resurgence. The contest finished 4–2 to the visitors — a result that highlighted how decisive moments in front of goal and defensive awareness can shape a match at this level.
We were fortunate to have photographer Aidan Wilson (@aidanwilsonphotography ) on hand to capture the action.
