BBC commentator Robyn Cowen was forced to apologise for ‘very sensitive’ microphones after they picked up a foul-mouthed rant during the Women’s World Cup. Canada defender Allysha Chapman was unhappy with appeals for a free-kick after a challenge with Australia’s Hayley Raso.
In the 65th minute, Raso attempted to cut out a loose pass played to Chapman. However, the 28-year-old failed in her attempt to win the ball from the Canadian.
The Australian – whose team won 4-0 – ended up worse for wear in the incident, with Chapman catching her with the follow-through. Raso was left in pain, writhing around on the floor.
Australia’s bench felt the tackle merited a foul and appealed for a free-kick. But Chapman laughed off the complaints with an X-rated retort.
Pitch-side microphones clearly picked up Chapman turning to the bench and shouting: “She f***ing jumped into me you t***!”
Commentating for the BBC, Cowen was quick to apologise for the rant. “Apologies, there, if any language was picked up on the very sensitive pitch-side microphones, it seems,” she said.
Australia’s triumph meant the tournament co-hosts advanced from Group B and into the knockout rounds. Canada head home after being pipped to second place by Nigeria.
Meanwhile, England can secure their place in the next stage of the tournament by beating China. The Lionesses have won both of their two games so far 1-0.
Head coach Sarina Wiegman received positive news over the weekend after it was confirmed that star midfielder Keira Walsh had not suffered damage to her ACL. It was initially feared that the Manchester City ace had suffered a serious knee injury in the victory over Thailand last week.
Wiegman remained coy on whether Walsh will take further part in the tournament. “Keira is OK. We know it was not an ACL,” Wiegman said.