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Three keys for England Women against Scotland
Scotland go into today’s game in Nice against England as underdogs. If they are to overcome the Lionesses, here are four things that will be key to Shelley Kerr’s side.
1) Do not concede an early goal
The role of favourites can hang heavy around some necks. For the first time England’s Women are carrying that burden and it may suit them – or it may not.
There are anecdotal stories that all is not well in the England camp.
A training session open to the media was suddenly canceled, leading many of the English press pack to speculate as to the reason. A desire of Phil Neville to lower the tension and pressure was one explanation posed. Another was an injury they did not wish to signal to their opponents and now it seems that Toni Duggan is having a fitness issue.
If there are any nerves in the England camp, nothing would settle them better than an early goal.
2) Take your chances and make them count
Even in defeat, England dominated possession against New Zealand.
The Football Ferns had few chances but took one. Scotland should not expect a proliferation of goal opportunities so it’s important to rattle the scoreboard with the ones they will get.
Erin Cuthbert scored from nigh on 30 yards against Jamaica in the last warm up game, a 3-2 win. It might be worth her having an early effort if there’s no better option on the flanks.
3) Cut out the giveaways
Against Jamaica in their final match, Scotland gave the ball away under no or minimal pressure far too often.
Khadija “Bunny” Shaw, Jamaica’s talisman striker, only punished one of them but a better side like England will be ruthless if handed possession in Scotland’s own half.
It’s vital that Scotland retain possession in dangerous areas, and that someone is always available for a safe short pass when a defender or midfielder is under pressure.
4) Get the Tartan Army involved
The town is filling up with Scots who are in evidence everywhere.
For all, this will be the first experience of supporting Scotland’s Women at the World Cup. For many of the younger ones and quite a few female fans, it’ll be their first time for any Scotland side on such a big stage. They will be nervous too.
Fans don’t win matches but their vocal backing can certainly inspire players and settle nerves. If Scotland are to succeed today, their involvement will play a big part in it.
