Scotland U21 Women beat Ireland 2-1 away from home in the second game of a four-match series. The previous game ended in a 1-0 win for Ireland, with the series moving into match three on level pegging.
Like the previous game Scotland started strong, and pinned Ireland back through excellent pressing. The Scots’ ability to win the ball high up the pitch put Ireland under immense pressure.
The pressure was rewarded in the opening quarter through a strike by Izzy Usher. It was Usher who got the final touch in a crowded circle to roll the ball over the line and put Scotland 1-0 ahead.
It nearly went to 2-0 quickly in the first quarter when Neive Halliday went on a superb solo run into the circle, skipping past defenders, and cut the ball back from the baseline, but a good save denied the goal.
When the second goal for Scotland did arrive, it was Chiara Forgie who struck it. Anna Hoolaghan smashed the ball across goal and Forgie was in position at the far post to control, and finish, to make it 2-0.
Scotland tired in the final quarter and let Ireland back in, with the home side pulling it back to 2-1, but Scotland regained composure and saw the game out for a well-deserved win.
Head Coach Neil Menzies said, “It was a good win for us, and we dominated much of the game. We were convincing for 90% of the match and tired a little at the end, but we can be largely pleased with the performance and result.
“The players are taking on lots of information on this trip. Chris Duncan has joined us and we’re getting the players up to speed on how the seniors play, and the detail has made a difference. The players are taking to it really well, and we’re looking forward to the last two games.”
