Chelsea trio star for Lionesses in 3-1 win over Russia in World Cup qualifier to top the group

Chelsea’s Fran Kirby, Millie Bright and Carly Telford were the England spine in a 3-1 win over Russia this evening that returned the Lionesses to the top of Group A as they edge another step closer to qualification for next year’s World Cup in France.

The trio played the full 90 minutes in a dominate display which saw Jill Scott net a brace with Nikita Parris notching the third.

Wales had briefly taken command of the group with a 1-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina yesterday, but this win means the Lioness are now two point clear of their Welsh rivals.

After six matches England have 16 points, Wales have 14.

Only the group winners automatically qualify for the finals.

Teams: England, Telford, Bronze, McManus, Bright, Daly, Scott, Kirby, Walsh (Williamson
 
 84min), Parris, White (Taylor 67min), Duggan (Mead 62min)

Substitutes: Blundell, Bardsley, Bruton, Lawley