Two Arsenal Ladies players were in action for England on Saturday as the Lionesses defeated Germany for the first time in 31 years to claim third place at the Women’s World Cup in Edmonton.

Forward Lianne Sanderson came on for Katie Chapman with ten minutes of normal time to play, and with the game goalless after 90 minutes, was dragged down for a penalty early in the second period of extra time, which was duly converted by Fara Williams.

Williams was replaced by Gunners’ defender Casey Stoney in the closing stages as England held out for a 1-0 win.

Arsenal right-back Alex Scott tweeted: "We just beat Germany 1st time everrrrr!!! And in a World Cup to claim Bronze!!!! What a day.... Let’s partyyy!"

Sanderson posted on Instagram: "What a day yesterday was. Thank you to those that continued to believe in me personally and our team."

The result marked England Women’s best performance in a World Cup and should see them rise up from sixth in the world rankings.