NICOLA Sturgeon has hit back at Piers Morgan in a feisty Twitter exchange over criticism of a women's football star.
The First Minister came to the defence of US World Cup hero Megan Rapinoe after Morgan attacked her on Twitter.
The former News of the World editor commented on an image of a triumphant Rapinoe after she scored two goals in the USA’s 2-1 quarter-final victory against Norway. Her side will now face England in the semi-finals.
“Ms Rapinoe sure does love herself. Can’t wait to see our Lionesses dent that stupendous ego,” he tweeted.
Sturgeon stood up for Rapinoe, calling her a “great role mode, whatever team you support”.
As well she should. She’s awesome is @mPinoe - and a great role model, whatever team you support. https://t.co/VvF61pcVdO
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) June 29, 2019
Morgan replied: “BREAKING: Sturgeon backs feisty, cocky, opinionated female firebrand shocker.”
Again rejecting Morgan’s negativity, the First Minister said: “Let’s hear it for feisty, cocky, opinionated female firebrands. The world needs more of them.”
Let’s hear it for feisty, cocky, opinionated female firebrands. The world needs more of them. 💪 https://t.co/8UwMz2bOMp
— Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) June 29, 2019
The exchange came after star forward Rapinoe celebrated the contribution of LGBT people in the aftermath of the USA’s win.
Asked if it being Pride month made her goals more personally significant, she replied: “You can’t win a championship without gays on your team – it’s never been done before, ever. That’s science, right there!
“I’m motivated by people who like me, who are fighting for the same things. I take more energy from that than from trying to prove anyone wrong.
“That’s draining on yourself. But for me, to be gay and fabulous, during Pride month at the World Cup, is nice.”
Those comments follow a spat with Donald Trump after she urged teammates to “think hard” about accepting an invitation the White House.
Trump said she should “win first before she talks”.
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