Liz Truss (pictured) has grown visibly in stature as this contest has progressed. From an awkward start, she has relaxed and connected with the party faithful.
EPHRAIM HARDCASTLE: After the Lionesses got to the 2015 World Cup semis, David Cameron planned a swift awarding of OBEs and MBEs in case they lifted the trophy.
STEPHEN GLOVER: Tory pessimism is overdone. There is actually a good reason for downcast Conservatives to feel quietly optimistic. I am speaking of Sir Keir Starmer.