England forward Lauren Hemp is assertive mood ahead of the Young Lionesses’ second World Cup group game against Brazil.
The youngster, who turned 18 on Tuesday, has spoken of her confidence in her team-mates’ ability to pick up the three points on Wednesday afternoon.
“It’s all about us as a team really,” she said.
“If we are able to do what we do week in, week out, then there’s no reason why we can’t keep beating teams such as Brazil.
“We have to work at our own strengths and keep progressing.”
Recently named as PFA Women’s Young Player of the Year, the Manchester City teenager impressed in England’s opening game.
Her unselfishness going forward as well as her work-rate throughout earned her the player of the match award.
“I’m very honoured to have got that award,” she added.
“At the end of the day, it’s all about the team and how we work, we all put in a performance and worked our hardest and I am just happy to have contributed to the success of the team.”
Unsurprisingly the mood in the camp is sky high, having beaten the reigning champions, North Korea, in the opener in Dinan.
“Everyone’s hyped, obviously we’re taking it game by game but we’re all very excited with the result,” explained Hemp.
“But now we’re back out on the training pitch, eager to get better and keep performing. All 21 of us are ready.”
Lionesses senior boss Phil Neville was in attendance on Sunday to see Mo Marley’s team out in France, as he casts his eye over some of the talented youth prospects.
And Hemp is excited at not just Neville attending, but also the encouraging following of England fans on display.
“We didn’t know he was going to be there but we’re doing it for our friends and family and we’re doing it for the people who have supported us throughout,” she said.
“The crowd was really good and the support was just mental. It helped us push on and keep working until the final minutes of the game.”
