She shoots, she scores! Wirral-born lioness helps England to Euros win
A Wirral-born lioness has helped England beat Spain 3-1 on penalties during a nail-biting Euros final.
Niamh Charles, who was raised in Greasby, graced the pitch during last night’s game, taking England’s third penalty which would help to clinch the win for the national team.
The Mayor of Wirral, Councillor Brian Kenny, said:
On behalf of the people of Wirral I’d like to extend a huge congratulations to Niamh Charles and the rest of the mighty lionesses on their second consecutive European title!
Your grit, strength and determination will inspire a generation of youngsters to lace up their boots and play the beautiful game.
Niamh, who began playing football at four years old with grassroots team West Kirby Wasps, was on target during a penalty shootout which won the mighty lionesses their second consecutive European title – having won the tournament on home soil in 2022.
The Chelsea and England defender returned home to Wirral in December 2024 to unveil a new £1.1m 3G floodlit pitch, named in her honour, recognising her role in the historic success of the Lionesses.
The Niamh Charles pitch, based at Bidston Sports and Activity Centre, will play a huge role in encouraging future footballing talent, and breaking down barriers to accessing sports.
At the opening of the pitch, Niamh said:
To see all the girls playing today on a pitch named after me is such an honour. Hearing how much the Lionesses’ success has meant to them makes me feel so proud of the whole team who continue to inspire women and girls across the country to get down to their local pitches to play football.
Congratulations to Niamh and the Lionesses!
