A sliver tankard commemorating the Women's friendly International game between England and Eire held at St James park on May 2nd 1978, England won the match 6 - 1, this was the first international match held at St James Park. In modern times, the England Women's team was first governed by The Women's Football Association which was formed in 1969 following an upsurge in interest in the sport after 1966, and since 1993 by The Football Association.