England tops Germany for a third-place finish

EDMONTON, Alberta - Fara Williams scored on a penalty kick in the 108th minute, helping England beat Germany, 1-0, on Saturday for third place in the Women's World Cup.

It was England's first win in 21 meetings against Germany, and secured the team's best finish in its four World Cup appearances. The victory over the top-ranked Germans came after a gut-wrenching 2-1 semifinal loss to Japan that was decided on an own goal on Wednesday.

Williams' goal was set up by a pass into the penalty area intended for Lianne Sanderson. As Sanderson turned to go after the ball, she was pulled down by Tabea Kemme.

On the penalty kick, Williams punched the ball just inside the left post, while goalkeeper Nadine Angerer faded the other way.

England had previously never won an elimination game, and finished this tournament with a 4-1-1 record.

Germany dropped to 18-1-2 against England, marking only the third time Germany has lost two games in seven tournament appearances.