A piece of football history has been permanently etched into the landscape. A commemorative blue plaque has been unveiled at Manor Park in Nuneaton, honoring the ground where the England women's national team—the Lionesses—played their very first home match.

The ceremony, held on Thursday, was a poignant reunion for members of the pioneering 1973 squad, who famously defeated Scotland 8–0 on that hallowed pitch. This tribute forms part of the celebrations for a landmark weekend, as the current Lionesses prepare to play their 500th international match against Iceland.

The event was a powerful reminder of the team's humble, yet explosive, beginnings. Among the attendees was Pat Mitchell-Firth, who at just 16 years old scored England Women's first-ever hat-trick in that debut home game. Recalling the magic of the day in front of 1,308 fans, she shared, "When I scored the first goal, I thought 'great, I've scored on my debut'... Third goal went in, I thought 'can't get any better'."

Reflecting on the plaque's unveiling nearly 54 years later, Mitchell-Firth said, "It means the world... We're so honoured and proud." She emphasized the enduring legacy, stating, "We're proud to be the group that started it," and that all Lionesses "from one to 241 are a family."

FA chair Debbie Hewitt praised the 1973 squad as "pioneers who drove the game forward," playing with a determination "to break down barriers" for future generations. The group also received messages of recognition from current head coach Sarina Wiegman and captain Leah Williamson, bridging the eras of English women's football.

As the modern team marks its 500th cap in Reykjavik, this blue plaque ensures the story of where it all began at home will never be forgotten, celebrating the spirit and foundation upon which today's Lionesses continue to build.