Reading’s survival in the Women’s Super League is hanging by a thread following a hugely damaging defeat by Tottenham, who confirmed their own safety with the 4-1 win.

The hosts, playing at the stadium after their men’s side lost to Brentford in a unique double-header, cruised to a 2-0 lead by half-time.

Record January signing Bethany England delivered the goods again, heading in at the back post from Molly Bartrip’s accurate chip for the opener. She scored again in the second half, rounding goalkeeper Grace Moloney before curling the ball into an empty net.

England has now scored five goals in three matches at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, also netting twice in a draw with Brighton and once in a narrow defeat by Manchester United.

Her form – which has helped keep Tottenham in the WSL – will only increase calls for her to be selected for England for this summer’s World Cup.

Celin Bizet scored in between England’s double in the first half, and Kit Graham made it 4-0 as Tottenham rubbed salt into Reading’s wounds.

Despite making several attacking changes throughout the second half, the visitors never looked like mustering a comeback, although they did get a consolation through Justine Vanhaevermaet from a corner.

Kelly Chambers’ side were evidently dejected at full-time as relegation looms, while Tottenham’s topsy-turvy season will at least end with their WSL status intact.

Little hope for dejected Reading

Reading’s fate is now out of their hands as they wait to see whether Leicester will beat West Ham to send them down.

Even if Chambers’ side do survive this weekend, they face an almighty task on the final day with five-time champions Chelsea – who are chasing a fourth successive title – coming to visit.

They lacked energy in London and were visibly dejected at half-time as Tottenham comfortably imposed themselves on their home turf in front of a larger crowd, who had stayed to watch following the men’s disappointing defeat by Brentford.

Perhaps fearful of going behind early, Reading were nervous in possession and struggled to deal with Tottenham’s intense start.

Rosella Ayane caused problems with her pace down the left, Drew Spence was a creative menace in the middle, and England’s presence was an unwelcome distraction for Reading’s backline.

The introduction of the experienced Jade Moore at half-time gave Reading a bit of a boost, but they lacked quality and were further punished by a Tottenham side who looked full of confidence.

Spurs themselves have had a hugely disappointing campaign, with criticism pouring in from supporters – but they were able to enjoy themselves, with Reading well beaten.

Spurs get job done as England shines

England’s arrival in January has no doubt played a significant part in Tottenham’s survival.

She has scored nine goals in the league since a British-record move from Chelsea, and her stature has grown each week, strengthening her argument to earn a recall to the Lionesses squad ahead of the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Her goalscoring efficiency has been one of the most pleasing aspects of Tottenham’s season, which has otherwise underwhelmed following last year’s fifth-placed finish.

The striker was given a standing ovation when she was substituted in the second half and supporters were on their feet at full-time to celebrate the long overdue confirmation of their safety.

Attention must now turn to the future as Tottenham look to recover the promising signs they showed last season – and that starts with naming a permanent manager.