England were left in tears after their dreams of winning Women's Euro 2017 were crushed by Holland.

The Lionesses saw their superb campaign come to a sudden halt as they were soundly beaten 3-0 by the vibrant host nation in their semi-final in Enschede on Thursday.

Goals from Arsenal pair Vivianne Miedema and Danielle van de Donk - the latter after an error by Gunners team-mate Fara Williams - secured victory for the Dutch before a late Millie Bright own goal compounded England's misery.

"I've got 24 devastated women in the changing room," said manager Mark Sampson.

"They've shed a load of tears, along with the staff, but I'm incredibly proud of the team.

"Over the last year they've given absolutely everything to try to win this tournament. They couldn't have left any more on the field, not just tonight but over the last year. I'm very proud of the team."

England made a scrappy start and paid the price as Holland's tactic of attacking down the right paid off with Miedema heading home Jackie Groenen's cross.

England made a positive response and Jade Moore had an effort deflected on to the post before Ellen White had a strong penalty appeal turned down.

Holland's second goal just after the hour proved a decisive blow. Van de Donk pounced after Williams headed back towards her own goal.

Tournament top scorer Wirral's Jodie Taylor and White went close to pulling one back but Dutch goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal held firm and England were finished off when Bright diverted Renate Jansen's effort into her own net with what proved to be the last kick of the game.

Sampson found the rejected White penalty appeal and some other decisions from French referee Stephanie Frappart tough to take but did not complain strongly.

He said: "Sometimes things don't go your way and in a game like tonight it's a real bitter pill to swallow because the players have given so much. Tonight wasn't our night.

"The referees are there to do their best. I'm sure she did her best tonight."

Sampson can at least reflect on a positive campaign that has further enhanced England's reputation and profile after finishing third in the World Cup two years ago.

He said: "I'm incredibly blessed. I couldn't wish for a better set of players or staff or supporters, who have got behind us, whether they've been in the stadium with us or supporting us back home in their great numbers.

"One thing I can promise all the supporters is this group of players - emotionally, physically - have just given everything for this jersey to try to achieve something special this summer."

Holland's opponents in Sunday's final at the same venue will be Denmark, who beat Austria on penalties in Breda after their clash ended 0-0.