the competition was run on a shoestring. russian players sold souvenirs before and during matches to raise funds to cover their expenses, while four england administrators re-mortgaged their houses to cover the expenses of attending the competition. but after fifteen matches the first world champions were crowned—the united states, who beat england in the final. despite the lack of support from the men's game, and very little media coverage, the competition had been a success, and the women's game continued to grow.