Mary Earps has picked up the Golden Glove in the last two major tournaments with England
Mary Earps stood on the pitch, holding the Golden Glove trophy aloft, as the applause filled the stadium after England's Women's World Cup final defeat to Spain. It wasn't the ending she deserved, but it was a moment of affirmation for a goalkeeper who has worked tirelessly to reach the pinnacle of her sport.
The Journey of a Remarkable Goalkeeper
At 30 years old, Mary Earps has carved out a remarkable international career in women's football. She overcame being an outcast and on the verge of retirement to emerge as one of the most globally recognized goalkeepers. While England fell short in the final, Earps' performances throughout the tournament confirmed her status as the world's best goalkeeper.
'She's the best for a reason'
In almost every game, Earps made crucial saves that kept England in contention. She recorded three clean sheets en route to the final and was awarded the Player of the Match after her exceptional performance in England's penalty shootout victory over Nigeria. Her saves against Haiti, Colombia, Australia, and Spain demonstrated her skill and determination.
Ella Toone, her Manchester United teammate, summed it up perfectly, saying, "She makes some unbelievable saves. She kept us in the game, and that's why she's number one and our goalkeeper." Georgia Stanway, an England midfielder, added, "She's the best for a reason, and moments like that explain why."
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Earps' Heroic Efforts in the World Cup Final
Mary Earps saved her best performance for the World Cup final. She made several crucial saves as England desperately attempted to find a way back into the game. Her moment of glory came when she dived low to save Hermoso's spot-kick, sparking jubilant celebrations. However, despite her herculean efforts, an England comeback was not to be.
Life Before and After Sarina Wiegman
Mary Earps' last World Cup experience was vastly different. She served as the third-choice goalkeeper in 2019 before being dropped by former manager Phil Neville. Two years passed without her representing England, and retirement seemed like a possibility. However, everything changed when Sarina Wiegman took charge in September 2021. Earps spoke of the transformation, saying, "The reality is my life before Sarina Wiegman and my life after Sarina Wiegman is totally different."
A New Era of Success
Within a year, Earps became the undisputed England number one goalkeeper, starting in every match at Euro 2022 and winning the Golden Glove as the Lionesses secured their first major trophy. She also clinched the FIFA Best Goalkeeper award. Earps' outstanding performances on the biggest stage have solidified her position as the world's best goalkeeper.
Earps' Fight for Goalkeeping Visibility
Earps' rise to stardom with the Lionesses has made her a favorite among supporters and a role model for aspiring young goalkeepers. However, she expressed disappointment in July when her goalkeeper shirt was not available for fans to purchase. The Football Association recognized the issue, with Mark Bullingham stating that it would be addressed shortly after the tournament. Beth Mead, an Arsenal forward, praised Earps for speaking up, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the position of goalkeepers.
"Glad Mary spoke up..."
Beth Mead commended Earps for highlighting the unavailability of her goalkeeper shirt. Mead, who was England's standout player in their victorious Euro 2022 campaign, stated, "She's the best in the world right now, and she didn't have a shirt that young boys and girls could buy. What Mary did within that tournament, and the last tournament, has been incredible. From number one to number 23, plus the staff behind the squad, everybody's important, and that shirt should be out there for Mary. I'm glad she spoke up about it."
Mary Earps' journey from uncertainty to becoming the world's best goalkeeper is a testament to her resilience and unwavering dedication. Her remarkable performances, both on and off the pitch, have endeared her to fans and inspired young players. Mary Earps' story is one of triumph and serves as a reminder that perseverance can lead to greatness.
