Lynda Hale, a pioneer who made her mark in the first women’s game in England, has died.

The football community is in mourning following the death of Lynda Hale, a true pioneer who left an indelible mark on women’s sports in England. Hale was the first player to score in an official international match for the England women’s national team, a feat that solidified her place in football history. With a career filled with achievements, including seven Women’s FA Cup victories, Hale was one of the cornerstones of the Southampton Women’s FC team that dominated the women’s football scene in the 1970s.

Hale, who was just 18 years old at the time, made history by starting the first official match of the Lionesses against Scotland in November 1972, where she contributed a goal in the 3-2 victory. This achievement not only secured her the number 7 in the “legacy numbers” of all players who represented the England team but also symbolized the beginning of a new era in women’s sports. Throughout her career, she amassed three goals in 10 appearances, at a time when international women’s matches were extremely rare.

In tribute to Hale, Sarina Wiegman’s women’s national team will wear black armbands during the World Cup qualifying match against Ukraine, which will take place in Turkey next Tuesday. “Our first No 7 and a scorer in the first official England women’s game, Lynda will always be remembered for the part she played in our football history,” stated Debbie Hewitt, chair of the Football Association, on the national team’s website. “On behalf of everyone at the FA and all those connected to the Lionesses, our thoughts are with her family and friends.”

Carol Thomas, former captain of the England national team, expressed her sadness on social media: “This afternoon, I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of one of the original pioneers of the Lionesses, former teammate and personal friend, Lynda Hale. I had the privilege and honor of playing alongside her and leading her across the white line as a Lioness. Our thoughts are with her family and friends.”

Hale also participated in the first Women’s FA Cup final in 1971, where Southampton Women’s FC defeated Stewarton Thistle 4-1, marking the beginning of an impressive run of nine consecutive finals. Southampton Women’s FC, an independent club not affiliated with WSL2, announced that they will pay tribute to Hale in their home game against Wycombe on Sunday. Aaron Smith, the club’s chairman, commented: “This devastating news has hit our club and community deeply. Lynda was one of the pioneers of women’s football, a player and person who helped create what it is today. Representing our wonderful club and England, she brought joy to the area.”

Born in 1954, the exact date of Hale’s birth remains unknown, but the legacy she left is undeniable. The club expressed its condolences to Lynda’s family, reaffirming that her contribution to women’s football will be forever remembered and celebrated.