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Mary Earps England 2023Getty Images

’That’ll haunt me for a long time’ - Distraught Mary Earps apologises for ‘letting the team down’ after England goalkeeper fumbles second Netherlands goal in eventual 3-2 win

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

  • Earps makes error vs Netherlands
  • England come back to win 3-2
  • Earps distraught after game
  • Mary Earps England dejected 2023Getty Images

    WHAT HAPPENED?

    The 30-year-old shot-stopper had already conceded an opener from Juventus ace Lineth Beerensteyn in the 12th minute, before spooning another shot from the Netherlands player into her own net ten minutes before half-time.

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  • THE BIGGER PICTURE

    England would go on to win the game 3-2, thanks to goals from Georgia Stanway, Lauren Hemp and Ella Toone, although Earps was visibly distraught during her post-match interviews following her error in the first half.

  • WHAT EARPS SAID

    Speaking to ITV after the game, Earps said: "The girls were unbelievable. To come back like that, unbelievable. The subs came on and impacted the game. I'm just sorry that my performance has cost the team tonight. That [the second goal] will haunt me for a long time. I've really let the team down today.

    "I'm really gutted, really, really gutted. It could've been a really special night at Wembley. The team were unbelievable. The girls were phenomenal. I'm a competitor and when it isn't good enough, it isn't good enough. I can only apologise to my teammates."

  • Mary Earps England 2023Getty

    WHAT NEXT FOR EARPS?

    Earps will now be hoping to put tonights performance behind her, as she prepares for a crucial clash against Scotland on Tuesday 5 December. The Lionesses are currently third in Group 1, but could leap-frog Belgium in second if results go their way next week. Friday's result means they can still technically qualify, but chances of progression are now slim.