Lionesses Get the Job Done in Qualifiers

England's women didn't exactly light up the sky with goals galore, but six points from six in their opening World Cup qualifiers? That's a pint-raising result. A 2-0 win over Iceland in Nottingham and a 6-1 thrashing of Ukraine in Turkey ticked the essentials, even if the goal difference could use a boost ahead of that mouthwatering clash with Spain at Wembley in April. Sarina Wiegman used these games to experiment a bit, and boy, did some tweaks pay off.

As reported by The Guardian via OneFootball, here's what we learned from the camp – perfect fodder for your next pub debate.

Stanway's Forward Foray: Goals and Gusto

Picture this: Georgia Stanway, the Bayern Munich engine room dynamo, pushed higher up the park like a kid let loose in the sweet shop. She bagged three goals across the two matches, including a belter of a volley against Iceland that had her yelling at Alessia Russo to leave the cross alone. 'This camp, I've been a lot higher... in the pocket,' she grinned post-match, loving the chance to shoot and create rather than just hustle box-to-box.

At 27, Stanway was the heartbeat of the March internationals – energetic, timely runs, and defensive nous when needed. If there was a player-of-the-camp award, it's hers. Wiegman must be rubbing her hands at unlocking this side of her.

Inverted Wingers and James' Magic

Lauren Hemp spent years hugging the left touchline for club and country, whipping in crosses like a pro. But switch her to the right against Ukraine's second half and Iceland? Magic. She notched an assist, created six chances, and teed up Lucy Bronze for overlaps that screamed danger. 'Love cutting inside on my left,' Hemp said, happily expanding her toolkit.

Over on the other flank, Lauren James was pure class at the City Ground – gliding past Iceland defenders without breaking sweat, keeping Chloe Kelly on the bench. Taylor Hinds, linking up at left-back from her Arsenal youth days with LJ, called it: 'Give her the ball and let her do her magic.' Wiegman beamed: 'She's enjoying it, building consistency – that's gold for us.' James is the X-factor, no doubt.

Park's Wide Berth, Bronze's Eternal Class

Jess Park, Manchester United's form filly, lit up against Ukraine from wide but faded centrally versus Iceland, crowded out by deep midfield hordes. Club form screams wide role, and this camp confirmed it – a big takeaway for Wiegman. Space is her friend out there.

Then there's Lucy Bronze, still going strong at 34 with 145 caps. Header for the opener, pinpoint cross for Stanway – timeless. Correcting a reporter mid-congrats ('England player!' not just Lioness), she eyes World Cup glory. Wiegman: 'Building minutes but delivering – vital.'

These weren't flawless romps, but competitive edges honed. Inverted wide players clicked, Stanway's advance worked wonders, and stars like James and Bronze reminded why England's top of the group hunt feels real. Spain, you're on notice. Cheers to that.