Scotland's women take on Wales tonight at Tynecastle in their second UEFA Euro2013 qualifying game. They will head into the game as favourites after seeing off Israel on their home ground by six goals to one and Wales losing to France at home for four goals to one. Wales also lost their opening game so have not made the best of starts to their group games. However, Scotland should not take anything for granted. Wales shocked France when they took the lead last Saturday early in the game and played some good football. The complacency trap will not be something that coach Anna Signeul will allow her players to fall into.
Many of her squad are used to playing at the top level in the women's game with goalkeeper Gemma Fay captaining the Celtic side which lost out to Glasgow City in the chase for the league title. The women's game is gaining in popularity as young girls see that a career can be made of their involvement. More players are moving from amateur (non-paid but professional in attitude and preparation) status to semi-professional. It is hoped that as the game expands, more money will be available via sponsorship to enable teams to employ the players full-time. Looking up to their heroines tonight will be the 22 player mascots from Bayside and Dunfermline Girls clubs. More young players, and perhaps Scotland players of the future, will have the chance to show what they can do during half-time when under-11 sides from Hutchison Vale, Boroughmuir Thistle, Musselburgh Windsor and Loanhead Miners will entertain the crowd.
UEFA Women's Euro 2013 QualifierScotland v WalesThursday 27 October 2011, kick-off 7pmTynecastle Stadium, Edinburgh Cash gate: £5 (adult), £2 (child/concession)
Source: FOOTYMAD
