BIRMINGHAM City Ladies stars have been at the forefront of the England under 19s World Championship bid in Canada.

Things started badly on Saturday with a 5-1 defeat to tournament favourites USA.

Blues striker Katy Ward claimed England's consolation.

But the Lions recovered to thrash Chinese Taipei 4-0 on Monday with Ward and clubmate Michelle Hickmott among the scorers.

The Birmingham duo were joined by teammate Laura Bassett in both games and are hoping to figure when Hope Powell's team play their final group game against Australia today (Wednesday).

To be guaranteed a place in the quarter finals, England have to win but a draw would see them finish with an identical record to Australia and the two best third place teams also qualify from the three groups.

The quarter finals are on Saturday and Sunday.