Scotland didn’t come away with any points from there opening game but there was a sense of belief that they can deliver on the big stage. Scotland started the more positive side but the VAR decision was a sucker punch.
In the second half, we saw a side that can compete against the best. Unlucky not to get a point from the game.
Does Kerr stick with the same 11 that started the game or does she make a few changes? Kirsty Smith came on at the left back for Nicola Docherty in the 2nd half and the complex of the game changed. She seemed to push Scotland up a bit further and made positives strides towards the opposition box.
Not taking anything away from Docherty who has played well all season. Being on a yellow may have just been a sensible thing to do.
Claire Emslie had a fantastic 2nd half. She kept on running down the right wing and caused problems for England’s Alex Greenwood. Her hard work was awarded by scoring the 1st goal in a World Cup by a Scottish player. Kim Little also upped her game in the 2nd half as she started to dictate the midfield.
Tomorrow’s game will be tough but Shelley Kerr will drill it into her players that if you start off on the right foot, you can come away with all 3 points. Japan will be a strong opposition, maybe even a tougher game than anticipated as they drew their 1st game.
Group D is wide open after Argentina drew with Japan. Scotland have a good chance of getting through to the group stages. Six points might be enough especially with the results in other groups. 3rd place qualification might even be in there favour.
Scotland won’t be thinking about that just yet. One game at a time is what Kerr will be telling the players. Scotland have it in their hands and it’s all to play for.
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